Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels escalated Tuesday following an attack on civilian, economic sites and energy facilities injured dozens of civilians.
Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government, said the Houthi group’s escalation and attempts to target Saudi Arabia, its national assets, citizens and residents constituted a “dangerous escalation.”
Al-Malki said in a statement that the attacks were a “blatant violation” of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and a “direct threat” to the security and safety of its citizens and residents.
He added that the coalition’s Joint Forces Command would take “necessary operational measures” to deter the Houthis and confront their approach, adding that the command would take all necessary measures and actions to respond to the sources of the threat and “neutralize its danger.”
In a separate statement, Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said several energy facilities and installations in the kingdom’s southern region were targeted early Tuesday.
