Riyadh: The Houthi group has issued a stern warning, threatening to target oil and vital facilities in Saudi Arabia if Riyadh becomes involved in military actions against Yemen.
According to Anadolu Agency, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi made the declaration during a televised speech broadcasted by the group's Al-Masirah television. He stated, "All Saudi oil facilities and vital installations will be targets for our missiles and drones if Riyadh gets involved" in Yemen's ongoing conflict. This statement marks a significant escalation in the rhetoric surrounding the Yemen conflict.
The situation intensified earlier this week when the Houthis launched missiles toward Saudi Arabia following an attack by Yemeni government forces on Sanaa airport. This marked the end of a period of relative calm in the region. The Houthis have accused Riyadh of being behind the airport attack, although Saudi authorities have not commented on these allegations.
In his speech, al-Houthi outlined a retaliatory strategy, stating, "The real equation is (...) airports for airports, ports for ports, and a blockade for a blockade." This implies a tit-for-tat approach where any Saudi involvement could lead to direct strikes on crucial infrastructure. The threat underscores the fragility of the situation and raises concerns about the potential for an escalation in hostilities.