Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis say they have launched dozens of missiles and drones at a major Saudi military airbase as Gulf states postpone talks with Iran over reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
The Houthis say the attack targeted the Khamis Mushait airbase in southern Saudi Arabia, including hangars, radar installations, runways and ammunition facilities.
Saudi authorities issued emergency alerts across several southern cities.
The attack comes as the wider regional confrontation increasingly threatens the world’s energy infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia’s damaged East-West pipeline could temporarily remove as much as 4% of global oil supply, according to Reuters.
The pipeline is particularly important because it allows Saudi oil exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
DIPLOMACY STALLS
Gulf states have postponed talks with Iran intended to address reopening Hormuz.
Iran, meanwhile, has threatened restrictions, fines, detention or confiscation against 77 vessels it says violated its rules governing passage through the strait.
The Houthis are simultaneously expanding their territorial position around Bab el-Mandeb on the opposite side of the Arabian Peninsula.
They now hold territory.
They control strategic islands.
They threaten commercial shipping.
And they possess missiles and drones capable of mounting large-scale attacks against Saudi Arabia.
The distinction between an armed proxy and a regional military power is becoming increasingly difficult to draw.
Sources
Reuters: Gulf talks postponed as Houthis attack Saudi Arabia
Join the Dissenting Citizen Newsletter
Independent news and commentary delivered directly to your inbox.
Breaking stories, analysis and commentary throughout the day.
Follow @VoxDissent →
