Saudi Arabia’s King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and the Shaybah oilfield in the Eastern Province were hit by Houthi attacks, killing four and injuring 10, according to Arab states. The UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Egypt condemned the strikes as violations of Saudi sovereignty and international law. The attacks occurred the night before, prompting regional solidarity with Saudi efforts to protect its security.
Saudi Aramco ordered staff to evacuate its Dhahran headquarters as Houthi attacks intensified. The strikes sent oil prices above $111 a barrel. The US has ordered diplomats and their families to leave Saudi Arabia amid the escalating conflict. At least two people were killed and eight injured in the airport attack, with a total of 22 killed in attacks on Saudi airports.
The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have intensified their attacks on Saudi infrastructure. Egypt has pledged military support for Saudi Arabia but stated it will not attack Yemen. President Sisi emphasized that the support is aimed at defending Saudi territory. The attacks have disrupted flights from Saudi Arabia, causing cancellations and soaring fares for expatriates in Kerala, India.
The Houthi conflict, which began in 2015, has led to a protracted war in Yemen. Saudi Arabia has been leading a coalition against the rebels, with the conflict resulting in thousands of casualties. The recent attacks highlight the ongoing volatility in the region, with international allies expressing concern over the humanitarian impact and security risks.
