Tensions rise between Yemen and Saudi Arabia as Houthis launch missile and drone attacks after 300 airstrikes

The long-running conflict between Yemen and Saudi Arabia has entered a new phase of escalation.

In a statement, the Houthi rebels’ military spokesman announced that “a large number of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and jet-powered drones” had been launched toward “highly sensitive areas” of Saudi Arabia.

The attacks targeted the capital, Riyadh, and the coastal city of Yanbu, home to the main facilities of Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil and gas company, Aramco.

The Houthis said the operation was a “response to the crimes and 300 airstrikes” carried out by the Saudis over the past week against the Yemeni capital, Sanaa.

Thick clouds of black smoke rose from fuel tanks near Riyadh International Airport, while authorities imposed the highest level of security measures.

After months of calm, air raid sirens were heard again in the Saudi capital. At the same time, residents were officially instructed not to leave their homes.

Saudi Arabian authorities have yet to respond, disclosing neither the extent of the damage nor the effectiveness of the Patriot defense systems.

On the ground, heavy fighting this Saturday between the rebels and Saudi-backed government forces has left at least 48 people dead within 24 hours. The latest escalation has further worsened the humanitarian situation.