SANAA, Yemen — The leader of Yemen’s Houthi movement, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has warned Saudi Arabia that its oil facilities and critical infrastructure could become targets if Riyadh launches what he described as a “large-scale attack” against Yemen.
Al-Houthi’s remarks came amid renewed tensions between the Iran-aligned Houthi group and Saudi Arabia, following reports of airstrikes near Sanaa International Airport that raised concerns over the fragile calm between the two sides.
In a televised statement, the Houthi leader said his group would respond to any escalation and warned that attacks on Yemen would trigger retaliatory measures against Saudi interests. He did not provide specific details about possible targets or the timing of any response.
Saudi Arabia has not issued an immediate official response to the warning.
The latest developments have increased uncertainty over the future of a long period of relative de-escalation between Riyadh and the Houthis after years of conflict. Saudi Arabia had led a military coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government against the Houthi movement since 2015, before diplomatic efforts helped reduce large-scale hostilities.
The Houthis have previously carried out missile and drone attacks against Saudi territory, including strikes targeting energy facilities, airports, and other strategic locations. Such attacks have raised concerns over regional security and the stability of global energy markets.
Analysts say any renewed confrontation between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis could have wider consequences for the Middle East, particularly amid ongoing tensions involving Iran, maritime security in the Red Sea, and conflicts across the region.
The situation remains closely monitored as regional and international actors continue efforts to prevent a return to full-scale fighting in Yemen, where years of war have created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
