Saudi Arabia Faces Attacks from Houthis and Iraq-Based Militias

The Saudi-led coalition and Houthi rebels have fought in Yemen since March 2015. Regional actors have joined the conflict. Combatants now target public infrastructure.

1. Saudi Arabia stated it is exercising its right to self-defense against cross-border attacks. The Saudi Ministry of Defense confirmed on July 27, 2026, that it intercepted drones launched from Iraq.

2. The Saudi government states its objective is to protect energy infrastructure. Online video footage shows the Saudi Aramco oil refinery in Jazan sustained damage during a Houthi offensive.

3. Saudi Arabia is coordinating with the Iraqi government to secure shared borders. The kingdom formally requested that Iraq prevent its territory from serving as a launch point for military attacks.

4. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government air force struck Houthi missile and drone launch sites in Marib and al-Jawf.

1. Houthi militants described Saudi airstrikes as a dangerous escalation of the conflict. The group released this statement on July 24, 2026, after Saudi forces struck Houthi military targets.

2. The Houthi movement announced a naval blockade of Saudi ports. This measure poses risks to regional shipping and trade as part of the group's ongoing campaign against the kingdom.

3. The New York Times reported that the Houthis are using Saudi reluctance to avoid further conflict to secure political concessions. This approach seeks to alter the power balance within Yemen.

4. Fighting persists along the Red Sea and Saudi borders. These clashes continue despite diplomatic interventions by the US and China.