Riyadh: Iran-backed Houthi rebels operating in Yemen have again increased tensions with Saudi Arabia. Attacks took place in both Yemen and Saudi Arabia on Thursday. And all this happened at a time when Pakistan’s PM Shahbaz Sharif and army chief General Asim Munir are on a Saudi tour. Experts say that these attacks have once again brought the security situation of the entire West Asia into the spotlight.
What happened in Yemen?
According to the report, Houthis targeted government army bases in Yemen’s Marib and Hadhramaut provinces with ballistic missiles and drones. At least 30 soldiers were killed, and more than 50 are said to be injured. The Houthi group says they attacked Saudi-backed targets.
What happened in Saudi Arabia?
Just hours after the Yemen attack, there was shelling in Saudi’s southern Najran area. Civilian areas came under fire. More than 10 people, including a 4-year-old child, have been injured. The Saudi government has directly blamed the Houthis and called it a violation of international law. There has been no statement from the Houthis on this yet.
Why did Saudi’s concern increase?
Intelligence agencies fear that the Houthis, an Iraq-backed militia, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard may together launch a major attack. The target could be oil fields, airports, ports, and other important economic infrastructure. Reports also mention an increase in drone and missile activities.
Why is the presence of Pakistan and Turkey important?
These attacks have taken place at a time when Pakistan’s PM Shahbaz Sharif and General Asim Munir are already in Saudi. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is also reaching Jeddah on Friday. It is reported that there will be talks on defence cooperation and possible agreements between the three countries. No new military alliance has been announced yet, but the meeting has great significance.
Will tensions increase again?
After the ceasefire in 2022, there was considerable peace in the area. But with these latest attacks, the atmosphere has heated up again. If the series of attacks and retaliation continues, its impact will not be limited to Yemen and Saudi Arabia only. The security of the entire West Asia, oil supply, and maritime trade may be affected. At present, all eyes are on the talks taking place in Jeddah and the next step of the Houthis.
