Houthi rebels have launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure, causing significant damage to the headquarters of Saudi Aramco, the country’s state-owned oil company. The attacks, which occurred in eastern Saudi Arabia, were confirmed by Houthi officials, who claimed responsibility for the strikes. The damage to the Aramco headquarters has raised concerns about the security of critical energy assets.
A separate incident saw a Saudi oil tanker sink after hitting a sea mine in the Red Sea, while another vessel was damaged by a projectile. These attacks have disrupted maritime traffic in the strait, affecting regional trade. The Saudi-led coalition has intercepted a Houthi missile aimed at Riyadh, highlighting the ongoing threat from Yemen-based rebels.
The attacks come amid a surge in Houthi strikes on Saudi airports and energy infrastructure. A recent strike on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport killed a Pakistani national, prompting condemnation from Pakistan’s political leaders. Despite domestic tensions, political rivals in Pakistan have united to express solidarity with Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to its defense.
The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, has escalated over the past years, with attacks on Saudi territory increasing in frequency and intensity. The Houthi group has consistently denied involvement in attacks on civilian targets, though their actions have drawn international criticism. The latest strikes underscore the ongoing instability in the region and the risks posed to both military and economic infrastructure.
