Fighting between Saudi-backed forces and Houthi rebels in Yemen has escalated sharply, with clashes reported almost daily between the two sides. In the latest development, Saudi Arabia has faced large-scale attacks from Houthi rebels targeting several areas within its territory. Adding to the tension, Houthi fighters attacked trucks carrying military supplies from Saudi territory, with the rebel group releasing video footage of the strike. According to the Houthi media centre, the attack took place near the Al-Wadiah border crossing area.
The video released by the Houthi media wing showed trucks, reportedly transporting military equipment, engulfed in flames and exploding. Media sources affiliated with the group confirmed the strike occurred close to the Al-Wadiah crossing on the Saudi-Yemen border. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the broader offensive against Saudi Arabia was launched in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on Houthi-held areas in Yemen. The rebels had earlier targeted Abha International Airport, King Khalid Air Base, and state oil giant Aramco, and have now shifted focus to trucks supplying weapons to Saudi-backed forces battling the Houthis.
Saudi Arabia responded sharply to the escalating attacks, with Riyadh declaring it would not hesitate to take any measures necessary to protect its sovereignty. Turki al-Malki, spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition forces, warned that all steps required to eliminate the threat posed by the Houthis would be taken.
For their part, the Houthis showed no signs of backing down, declaring their intent to continue and intensify attacks within Saudi territory in the days ahead, signalling that the conflict is likely to remain volatile with no immediate resolution in sight.