Yemen’s Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, launched a fresh assault on Saudi Arabia on Monday, while talks between Gulf Arab states and Iran were delayed. The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has raised concerns about potential threats to global oil production.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for firing numerous missiles and drones at a military airbase in Khamis Mushait, targeting various facilities in retaliation against Saudi airstrikes in Yemen. Saudi authorities issued emergency alerts in response to the attack.
This incident followed a previous attack on Saudi Arabia last Friday, which was attributed to Iran-supported fighters in Iraq. The attack disrupted the east-west pipeline, crucial for Gulf oil exports to bypass the blocked Strait of Hormuz.
The Houthis have made significant territorial gains in Yemen recently, including capturing Perim Island at the mouth of the Red Sea. The escalating conflict poses a challenge for U.S. President Donald Trump, who is under pressure from Gulf allies to contain the Houthi threat but is cautious about opening a new front in the region.
Saudi Arabia has been leading a coalition against the Houthis since 2015, with the conflict experiencing periods of calm under a ceasefire until recent fighting reignited. The Houthis have been pushing back forces aligned with the internationally recognized government in Yemen.
Despite Saudi requests for direct military intervention, the U.S. has provided intelligence support but resisted further involvement. President Trump mentioned discussing the situation with the Saudi crown prince and receiving messages from the Houthis urging the U.S. to stay out of the conflict.
As the conflict escalates, the International Organization for Migration reported that thousands of Yemenis have fled the fighting, with the Houthis advancing into cities like Mocha. A meeting planned in Oman between Iran and Gulf states to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil export route, was postponed at the request of Saudi Arabia.
President Trump expressed optimism about a potential deal with Iran, but Iranian officials insisted on meeting certain conditions before engaging in talks. Oil prices spiked amid concerns over the disruption to global oil supplies, with experts warning that an extended shutdown of the Saudi pipeline could impact up to 4% of global oil supply.
Reports of an oil tanker incident in the Strait of Hormuz added to the tension, with conflicting accounts from Iran and the U.S. military about the cause of the vessel’s damage. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping lane, has faced disruptions since the onset of the conflict, with Iran asserting control over the passage.