Escalation in Yemen conflict as Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia exchange attacks

Between September 13 and 15, 2026, the conflict between the Houthi rebel movement and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government escalated significantly. Following rapid Houthi territorial gains in western Yemen, including control over the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait, Saudi Arabia launched intensive airstrikes across multiple provinces. In retaliation, the Houthis conducted large-scale drone and missile attacks against military infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including the King Khalid airbase in Khamis Mushait and other facilities near Abha.

The exchange resulted in civilian casualties, with at least 13 people reported injured in Saudi Arabia as of September 15, along with damage to homes and vehicles. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that the rebels targeted command centers and weapon depots to counter what they termed a campaign of hundreds of Saudi airstrikes. International humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the displacement of tens of thousands of people due to the fighting.

While the Saudi-led coalition vows to continue its response under international law and the right to self-defense, Iran has denied direct involvement, asserting that the Ansarallah movement acts independently. Global markets have reacted to the instability, with oil prices surpassing 100 dollars per barrel amid concerns regarding regional energy infrastructure.