"We launched a large-scale operation, firing dozens of ballistic missiles and UAVs at facilities belonging to the Aramco oil company and Saudi Arabia's King Khalid Air Base", Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree announced on 8/9. "The strikes were accurate, hit their targets, and caused significant damage."

Saree stated this was Houthi's retaliation for "121 airstrikes by Saudi Arabia, originating from King Khalid and King Fahd air bases" over the past three days. These strikes targeted the Marib, Al Bayda, Hodeidah, Taiz, and Al Jawf provinces of Yemen, resulting in multiple fatalities.

The Houthi movement accused Saudi Arabia of escalating the conflict and warned of strong retaliation if attacks continued. Saree indicated that Houthi would continue to "respond to siege with siege" until Saudi Arabia ends its military intervention and lifts the blockade on areas controlled by the group in Yemen.

Saudi officials reported that Houthi attacks injured at least 73 people, caused fires, and forced several facilities to halt operations. This latest wave of attacks is considered the most intense and serious since the conflict re-escalated in July, following a four-year lull.

Previously, on 7/9, Houthi released a video of an attack targeting "trucks carrying military equipment from Saudi Arabia" in the Al-Wade district of Yemen's southern Abyan province. The footage showed several buildings and nearby staging areas being hit, with some trucks engulfed in flames and secondary explosions.

On 8/9, the Saudi Foreign Ministry announced that the country would implement all measures to protect its sovereignty. It also demanded that Houthi cease its offensive operations against Saudi Arabia and shipping in the Red Sea.

Areas controlled by Houthi forces in Yemen. Graphics: Open Street Map

The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015 to counter Houthi. Most major fighting ceased after a ceasefire was reached in 2022.

However, the agreement broke down after Houthi attacked a Saudi airport on 13/7 in retaliation for an attack on Sanaa airport. Houthi also declared a "maritime embargo" on Saudi ships operating in the Red Sea.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, Al-Masirah, Reuters)