RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia intensified Monday as the Yemen-based group claimed a barrage of missiles and drones against military targets while Gulf states postponed Strait of Hormuz talks with Iran.
The Houthis said they targeted an airbase in Khamis Mushait, including aircraft hangars, radar systems, runways and ammunition depots. The Saudi-led coalition said 13 civilians were wounded in attacks across southern Saudi Arabia.
Saudi and Yemeni government forces responded with increased airstrikes on Houthi positions, including around the Red Sea port of Mocha.
Yemeni government officials said the Houthis remained in effective control of most of Yemen’s western coastline. The group’s recent advances included taking Perim Island near the entrance to the Red Sea.
The escalation has added pressure on Saudi energy routes after an aerial attack forced the kingdom’s East-West oil pipeline offline.
Traders cited by Reuters said an extended shutdown could put as much as 4% of global oil supply at risk while Hormuz traffic remains heavily restricted.
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Oman separately postponed a Monday meeting involving Iran and Gulf states that was expected to discuss negotiations over maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz.
Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi said the delay was “in the interests of consensus.” Iran said Saudi Arabia had requested the postponement.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also met U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper in Jeddah on Monday as Riyadh considered its response to the renewed fighting.
