Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched attacks on four cities in southern Saudi Arabia, injuring at least 73 people and triggering fires at oil-related facilities, in what appeared to be a significant escalation of the six-month-old Middle East conflict.
The attacks on Tuesday targeted areas in the southern cities of Khamis Mushait, Abha, Najran and Jazan, with the Houthis claiming responsibility for what they described as a wide-ranging operation against Saudi territory.
The group, which controls much of Yemen’s populated territory, including the capital, said it deployed drones and missiles against a Saudi airbase in Khamis Mushait and facilities belonging to the Saudi state oil company in Abha, Najran and Jazan.
Saudi authorities confirmed fires at the targeted locations and said 73 people were injured, including women and children.
The developments came as U.S. forces reportedly resumed attacks on Iran following a two-day pause.
A U.S. official said American forces struck several Iranian oil tankers linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), following what Washington described as Iranian attempts to attack a U.S. Navy warship.
Iranian media also reported attacks on oil tankers.
Tasnim News Agency reported that a U.S. missile hit an Iranian tanker about four miles (6 km) from Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil hub.
Iran’s state broadcaster separately reported that another oil tanker was attacked by the United States near Jask, along the Gulf of Oman.
The IRGC subsequently threatened to target oil tankers at ports in Kuwait and Bahrain in retaliation, according to a statement carried by Iranian state media.
The statement also warned crews at the ports to evacuate.
Middle East war: Houthis attack four Saudi cities, injure 73