Yemen’s Houthi group shows the firing of the so-called surface-to-surface ‘hypersonic ballistic missile’ at an unrevealed site in Yemen on September 16, 2024. (Credit: Houthi Media Center via Getty Images)
Saudi Arabia intercepted two ballistic missiles launched from Yemen, with the projectiles reportedly targeting oil refineries in the western city of Yanbu, Reuters reported, citing unnamed Greek security sources.
The missiles were shot down by a Greek-operated air defense system deployed in Saudi Arabia, according to the report.
Earlier Saturday, Saudi authorities issued brief warnings to residents in the cities of Jizan and Yanbu after Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement vowed retaliation for Saudi attacks carried out this week.
Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam said the group’s naval blockade against Saudi Arabia was the first step in what he described as a "blockade-for-blockade" campaign.
Abdulsalam accused Riyadh of using military action and economic pressure following what he called the failure of Saudi Arabia’s eight-year war in Yemen, alleging that the kingdom was attempting to recover its losses through an economic blockade.
According to the Houthi-run Al Masirah TV, Abdulsalam also accused Saudi Arabia of escalating the conflict by targeting Hodeida, Kamaran Island and Sanaa airport, warning that any attacks on Yemen would be met with a response. "Saudi’s actions will have consequences for the kingdom’s security and economy," Abdulsalam said.
The escalation comes after the Houthis announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia earlier this week, warning ships not to load or unload cargo at Saudi ports or risk being targeted.
Meanwhile, a tanker was involved in an encounter with military forces in the Gulf of Oman on Friday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said Saturday, according to Reuters.
The agency advised vessels to consult the latest maritime security information and remain alert to the evolving operational environment.
Last week, the Houthis declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia, targeting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, attacking Saudi oil tankers and shattering a four-year local truce.
