Saudi Energy Infrastructure Targeted in Houthi Offensive; Oil Prices Surge

Energy operations in Saudi Arabia faced significant disruptions on Tuesday following a series of coordinated strikes by Yemen's Houthi rebels. The attacks, which involved a combination of ballistic missiles and drones, targeted key Aramco facilities in Jazan, Najran, and Abha, as well as an air base in Khamis Mushait. Saudi officials confirmed that 73 individuals were wounded in the strikes, which triggered fires across multiple sites. In response to the security threat, the Saudi-led coalition labeled the offensive a 'dangerous escalation' and pledged a firm military response to deter further aggression. The geopolitical instability sent immediate shockwaves through global energy markets. Brent crude futures climbed $1 to reach $98 per barrel, while U.S. crude futures saw a sharper increase of over $2, settling at $93.65 per barrel. While the Saudi energy ministry works to assess the damage and ensure the safety of its personnel, the Houthi leadership has warned that their offensive is a direct retaliation for ongoing regional tensions and coalition activities in Yemen. Operations at the affected sites remain under review as the kingdom evaluates the full scope of the impact.