Saudi Arabia is grappling with a significant challenge as attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis continue to disrupt its oil industry, risking a return to full-scale conflict—a scenario the Kingdom is keen to avoid. The world's largest oil exporter has seen its energy facilities set ablaze and dozens wounded in the Houthis' most substantial missile-and-drone assault in years. In response, Saudi jets have carried out numerous airstrikes, reminiscent of the Yemen war, which saw tens of thousands of strikes by the Saudi-led coalition until a ceasefire in 2022.
The recent escalation comes as Saudi Arabia is in the midst of an ambitious economic overhaul, including major tourism projects and preparations for the 2034 World Cup. The Kingdom's oil exports via the Gulf have been severely impacted by Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, forcing a redirection of much of its outflow to the Red Sea via pipeline. However, Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea and strikes on a major oil refinery in Jizan and other energy facilities near the shared border threaten these workarounds.
Riyadh has increasingly relied on an Egyptian pipeline to transport its oil to the Mediterranean since a Houthi maritime blockade began in July. Oil exports from the Egyptian port of Kerir more than doubled in August to 2.3 million barrels a day, with the majority being Saudi crude. Despite its history of using air power against the Houthis, Saudi Arabia has shown a preference for a more measured response, supporting Yemen's Saudi-backed government forces rather than launching a large-scale air campaign.
FAQs
- **What are the Houthis and why are they attacking Saudi Arabia?**
The Houthis are a rebel group in Yemen, backed by Iran, who have been in conflict with the Saudi-led coalition since 2015. They are attacking Saudi Arabia in retaliation for the coalition's involvement in the Yemen war and to pressure Saudi Arabia into ceasing its support for the Yemeni government.
- **How are the Houthi attacks impacting Saudi Arabia's economy?**
The attacks are disrupting Saudi Arabia's oil industry, which is crucial to its economy. The destruction of energy facilities and the threat to oil exports are putting pressure on the Kingdom's economic stability, especially as it pursues an ambitious economic diversification plan.
- **What measures is Saudi Arabia taking in response to the Houthi attacks?**
Saudi Arabia has conducted airstrikes in response to Houthi attacks and has increased its use of an Egyptian pipeline to transport oil to the Mediterranean. It is also supporting Yemen's Saudi-backed government forces rather than engaging in a large-scale air campaign.
- **What is the international community's response to the Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia?**
The United States has indicated it would respond against the Houthis if they attempt to block maritime traffic in the Red Sea. However, the newly formed NATO-style mutual defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan is still in its early stages and is unlikely to play a significant role in the immediate military response.
