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Saudi Arabia launches massive air strikes after Houthi attack

Saudi Arabia has conducted over 50 air strikes within 24 hours in response to a rare drone and missile attack by Iran-backed Houthi forces on a military installation in the kingdom.

LSN Malaysia · 13 September 2026

Saudi Arabia launches massive air strikes after Houthi attack

The intensive bombardment represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi movement, which has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries. The strikes followed an audacious assault by the Yemeni militant group on a Saudi military base, demonstrating the group's evolving capability to strike deep into Saudi territory.

The Houthis, who have received military support from Iran, have periodically launched cross-border attacks against Saudi Arabia despite years of air campaign targeting their positions in Yemen. The recent drone and missile strike marked a notable breach in Saudi air defenses and triggered the swift retaliatory response.

The escalation underscores the fragile security situation in the Arabian Peninsula, where the Houthi insurgency continues to pose challenges to regional stability. Saudi Arabia has maintained that its military operations target militant infrastructure and deny the group capabilities to launch further attacks.

Neither party has provided details on casualties or extent of damage from the recent exchanges. International observers have expressed concern about the cycle of attacks and counter-attacks, which risks further destabilizing the already conflict-affected region.