Escalating conflict between Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following a series of mutual strikes between Houthi rebels in Yemen and the Saudi-led coalition. Between September 13 and 16, 2026, Houthi forces launched multiple drone and ballistic missile attacks against targets in southern Saudi Arabia, including the King Khalid airbase in Khamis Mushait. These attacks resulted in at least 13 civilian injuries and damage to residential infrastructure. The Houthi rebels also claimed to have shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet over the Ma'rib province using a locally manufactured surface-to-air missile.

In response, Saudi Arabia conducted over 50 airstrikes across Yemen, targeting Houthi military infrastructure, including weapon depots and command centers in regions such as Taiz, Hodeidah, and Saada. Security alerts were briefly issued for cities including Mecca, Jeddah, and Taif. The conflict has been further complicated by the Houthis' recent capture of the Bab el-Mandeb strait, a critical maritime passage for global trade. The United Nations Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting to address the threat to this strategic chokepoint. While the Houthis maintain they are acting in retaliation to ongoing Saudi air campaigns, Iran continues to deny any direct involvement in the movement's military operations.