Houthis launch attacks on Saudi oil facilities amid regional escalation

Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jizan and Yanbu on July 25, 2026, in retaliation for Saudi-led coalition airstrikes on the port city of Hodeida. The attacks mark a significant escalation in the conflict, opening a new front in the Red Sea.

Attacks on Saudi Oil Infrastructure

The Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, stated that the attacks targeted "sensitive installations" of Aramco in Jizan with "decades of ballistic missiles and drones" and struck facilities in Yanbu with cruise missiles and drones Source: Infobae. Saudi authorities did not immediately confirm the hits but issued air raid warnings. However, Saudi officials later claimed that missiles were intercepted by Patriot systems operated by Greek forces Source: ABC. Meanwhile, social media videos verified by multiple outlets showed smoke rising from the Jizan refinery Source: CNN.

Regional Escalation

The Houthi attacks come after the group imposed a maritime blockade on Saudi shipping in the Red Sea and struck two Saudi oil tankers earlier in the week Source: El Mundo. This coincides with ongoing US-Iran tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, disrupting global oil shipping Source: El Confidencial. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have threatened to expand operations as Saudi Arabia continues airstrikes in Yemen Source: Excelsior.

What's Next

The conflict risks further disrupting global energy markets, with oil prices already volatile Source: Milenio. Iran has called for dialogue, while the US paused its airstrikes on Iran for the first time in two weeks Source: Milenio. The Houthis vowed to maintain the blockade, warning of "siege for siege and escalation for escalation" Source: La Voz.