The Houthis of Yemen announced responsibility for new attacks against Saudi Arabia on Sunday, reporting the launch of missiles and drones towards a military base near the border of the country. This group, which is backed by Iran, is attempting to expand its influence along the Red Sea coast.
Escalation of Tensions and Attacks on Infrastructure
These attacks occur as Saudi Arabia faces increasing pressures from Iran-aligned groups on multiple fronts. Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that Iran is likely responsible for the attack on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, adding that the Houthis are not inclined to engage in conflict with the United States.
The Saudi Civil Defense Management reported that a Houthi project in the Jazan region injured two people and damaged a mosque, several buildings, and vehicles. These attacks have been condemned as a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.
Houthi Advances and Impact on Maritime Transport
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree announced that the group attacked weapon storage facilities and command centers at a base in Shabwa. With the capture of the important port of Mocha and other areas along Yemen's western coast, the Houthis now control the entire Red Sea coast of Yemen and have gained a dominant position around Bab el-Mandeb.
These developments have severely impacted maritime transport, with only 15 ships passing through Bab el-Mandeb on Friday. Saudi Arabia is heavily reliant on the Red Sea as an alternative route for oil exports, and this situation has raised concerns about maritime transport security.
