The United States has issued a warning regarding the potential for rapid escalation in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthi forces, following a missile attack on Riyadh. This incident marks the first time the Saudi capital has been targeted since the resumption of hostilities in Yemen, as reported by Gulf Times.
In response to the missile attack, which resulted in loud explosions in Riyadh, US President Donald Trump cut short a weekend retreat at Camp David to return to the White House. The White House has not provided specific details regarding the early return, but it coincides with a significant escalation in the conflict.
On Saturday, explosions were reported in the Saudi capital, with journalists observing a fuel tank belonging to oil giant Aramco ablaze near the airport. The US State Department has cautioned that the military conflict could escalate quickly, advising American citizens outside the Middle East to reconsider travel to the region.
The recent offensive by the Houthis has resulted in significant casualties, with hundreds reported dead and over 110,000 people displaced, according to the UN refugee agency. The violence has also disrupted Saudi Arabia’s oil exports and maritime traffic, raising concerns about global energy supplies.
Despite a Saudi request for military action against the Houthis, the US reportedly declined to conduct strikes last week. However, Washington has approved a substantial arms sale to Saudi Arabia, including 48 F-35 fighter jets valued at $24.3 billion. Additionally, US Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to discuss regional stability.
During this meeting, Sisi emphasized the importance of resolving regional crises through diplomatic means. This dialogue follows a recent visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Cairo, where both leaders discussed ensuring safe navigation through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical waterway for global shipping and energy transport.
In a statement, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned the Houthi attacks and indicated that discussions had taken place with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan regarding potential military assistance. He noted that Turkey could meet any military needs that arise.
On Sunday, Saudi media largely omitted coverage of the missile attack, despite confirmation from the Riyadh-led coalition that the missile was intercepted. The coalition stated that the Houthis had attempted to target civilians and infrastructure in several Saudi cities, including the important port of Yanbu.
As the conflict intensifies, Saudi Arabia has conducted numerous airstrikes on Houthi positions but has struggled to halt the group’s advances. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the missile attack, asserting that they targeted sensitive sites in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu.
This escalation represents a significant development in the Yemen conflict, which has been exacerbated by the broader regional tensions stemming from the ongoing US-Iran hostilities. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further military actions and diplomatic efforts in the coming days.
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