Iran warns US interests will be 'heavily targeted' amid Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Iran-backed Houthi fighters launched a series of coordinated attacks on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, targeting cities and energy infrastructure across southern Saudi Arabia. The strikes hit civilian and economic sites in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jizan, and Najran, with Saudi authorities reporting at least 73 people wounded, including women and children. Key targets included facilities belonging to the state oil giant Aramco and the King Khalid airbase, resulting in fires at several energy installations and a temporary halt in some operations.

The Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the "broad military operation," stating they used drones and ballistic missiles deep inside Saudi territory. This escalation marks a significant expansion of regional tensions, with the attacks contributing to increased global oil prices. The strikes come after a four-year truce collapsed in July, intensifying fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Riyadh has strongly condemned these actions, with the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen vowing a resolute response. A spokesperson for the coalition stated that all necessary operational measures would be taken to deter the "terrorist militia" and defend Saudi sovereignty and national capabilities. The Saudi Foreign Ministry reiterated the Kingdom's right to take all necessary steps to protect its citizens and residents, calling on the international community to uphold relevant UN Security Council resolutions.