Iran-Backed Houthis Strike Saudi Energy Infrastructure in Major Regional Escalation

The useful part

The attacks struck areas around Jazan, Najran, Abha and Khamis Mushait, with the Houthis claiming they targeted Saudi Aramco facilities and King Khalid Air Base. Jazan refinery was left burning and offline, further threatening energy supplies at a time when Middle East oil flows are already under severe pressure. Saudi Arabia's Energy Ministry said emergency crews were battling fires and assessing damage while authorities worked to restore operations.

How it works

• The latest strikes underscore the expanding regional reach of Iran's proxy network.
• Saudi officials described the assault as a "dangerous escalation," and the Saudi-led coalition vowed to take military measures to deter further Houthi attacks.
• Brent crude climbed toward $100 a barrel, as traders weighed the growing danger to Saudi oil infrastructure alongside continuing disruptions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping routes.

Details worth keeping

The escalation immediately rattled global energy markets.