The Iran-aligned Houthi movement conducted strikes against military installations in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, resulting in significant casualties and prompting warnings of further escalation in the region.
On Thursday, Houthi forces attacked military camps in Marib and Hadramout provinces using missiles and drones, resulting in at least 30 deaths among Yemeni government troops, though some reports suggested the toll could reach 58. The militant group claimed responsibility for the strikes, asserting they targeted military installations, weapons storage facilities, and vehicles. Yemeni officials stated they would respond at an appropriate time but did not immediately detail specific measures. Health authorities directed medical facilities to prepare for potential casualties.
The attacks occurred amid indications that Saudi Arabia was preparing a significant military operation against the Houthis. Sources suggested the planned offensive would involve both maritime and potential land-based components in central Yemen, aimed at breaking the group’s control over shipping routes in the Red Sea that affect Saudi oil exports. In a separate incident early Friday, projectiles struck civilian areas in southern Najran province in Saudi Arabia, injuring 11 people including a child. A Saudi military coalition spokesperson stated that protective measures would continue against further attacks.
Saudi officials expressed concern about coordinated operations, with one senior government representative noting intelligence assessments indicating potential simultaneous strikes from multiple directions under Iranian coordination. The warning cited possible targeting of civilian infrastructure, energy facilities, ports, and airports. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts were progressing elsewhere in the region, with Iran and Oman reporting advanced negotiations on a strait of Hormuz agreement, contingent on sanctions relief.
The escalating tensions represent a broader deterioration of the longstanding competition between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis over Yemen, which has intensified as the militant group expanded operations against energy infrastructure and declared a naval blockade affecting regional shipping.
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