In a significant escalation of hostilities, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen have launched a coordinated series of attacks against Saudi Arabia using ballistic missiles and explosive-laden drones. The strikes specifically targeted civilian areas and infrastructure in the southwestern regions of the Kingdom, including the cities of Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif. According to reports from the Saudi-led coalition, these attacks were aimed at residential zones and military airbases, causing widespread alarm and leading to emergency alerts across the affected urban centers.
Impact on Civilians and Infrastructure
The coalition supporting legitimacy in Yemen confirmed on Tuesday that the Houthi offensive resulted in injuries to 13 civilians. The victims sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate as the projectiles struck civilian-populated areas, while beyond the human toll, the physical damage to property has been documented, with at least 7 houses and 2 vehicles reported as damaged or destroyed in the aftermath of the missile and drone strikes. The deliberate targeting of non-military sites has drawn sharp criticism from regional authorities and international observers.
Official Response from the Coalition
Major General Turki Al-Malki, the spokesperson for the coalition, provided a detailed briefing on the situation, while he stated that the Houthi rebels launched the ballistic missiles and drones on Monday, intentionally choosing civilian targets in Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif. Al-Malki emphasized that the persistent and deliberate nature of these attacks reflects the increasing aggression of the Houthi militia. He further asserted that the coalition would respond to these provocations with firmness and responsibility, acting in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which outlines the principle of self-defense. The spokesperson reiterated that the protection of Saudi sovereignty, its citizens, and its civilian infrastructure remains a top priority under international humanitarian law.
Security Measures and Threat Mitigation
In the wake of the attacks, the Saudi Civil Defense has been working to secure the affected regions. Authorities have since announced that the immediate threat has been neutralized in 6 key areas: Jeddah, Yanbu, Taif, Al-Ula, Abha, and Jazan. Despite the declaration that the danger has passed, the Civil Defense has urged residents to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety instructions. Citizens have been specifically requested to avoid gathering at the sites of the attacks, refrain from filming the damage for social media, and immediately report any suspicious objects or emergency situations to the relevant authorities.
Counter-Strikes and Ground Developments
While Saudi Arabia dealt with the incoming threats, reports from the Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV indicated that the Saudi-led coalition conducted retaliatory airstrikes within Yemen. According to the Houthi health ministry, these airstrikes in the Taiz province resulted in the deaths of 3 people, including 2 children. The strikes reportedly hit the Dhubab and Maqbanah districts of the southwestern province, leaving 2 others injured. Simultaneously, on the ground, armed forces aligned with the internationally recognized government of Yemen have reportedly made progress, reclaiming several strategic positions from Houthi control as the conflict in the province intensifies. The coalition has vowed to take all necessary military and operational steps to deter future Houthi hostilities and ensure regional stability.