As tensions between the U.S. and Iran persist, clashes between Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels in Yemen are escalating, creating additional risks in the Middle East. The renewed conflict between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces and the Iran-supported Houthi rebels comes after a four-year hiatus, driving international oil prices close to $100.
On September 8, Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi rebels, announced airstrikes against Saudi Arabia, claiming they were "precise and direct" and caused significant damage to Saudi facilities. Saree stated that the strikes were retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on Houthi areas, alleging that Saudi forces conducted 121 airstrikes targeting Marib, Al-Bayda, Al-Hudaydah, Taiz, and Al-Jawf provinces, resulting in numerous civilian casualties, including women and children.
Saudi authorities reported that 73 people were injured in the Houthi attacks, which also targeted military bases and oil facilities. The Saudi government warned that it would not tolerate attacks on its territory and resources, promising retaliation. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) condemned the Houthi strikes, stating they deliberately targeted civilians and infrastructure.
The airstrikes occurred amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, coinciding with the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. The Houthis have threatened to blockade the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial shipping route for global energy transport and a key export channel for Saudi oil. On July 20, the Houthis claimed that Saudi Arabia had besieged Yemen and announced a maritime blockade against the kingdom.
Both sides have entered a phase of active military confrontation, with fighting intensifying between government forces and Houthi rebels in Yemen, effectively breaking the UN-mediated ceasefire established in April 2022. The Yemeni government has expressed determination to retake the capital, Sana'a, which has been under Houthi control since 2014. Yemen's Deputy Defense Minister Saib Al-Sabri stated on state-run Yemen TV, "We have decided to retake Sana'a. From today, our goal is clear and firm: to liberate Yemen from the grip of the terrorist Houthi rebels and restore Sana'a as the capital for all Yemenis."
Concerns are rising that the Yemeni civil war could escalate into a full-scale conflict. Hans Grundberg, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, warned that the current situation could lead to a broader war and urged all parties to cease hostilities.
As the Iran conflict shows no signs of resolution, the clashes between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, along with the Yemeni civil war, are contributing to rising international oil prices, which are nearing $100. As of 5:36 PM KST on September 8, Brent crude futures for November delivery rose 2.23% to $99.16, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures increased 3.22% to $94.43.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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