Saudi Arabia vows “firm” response after Houthi attacks injure 13

Saudi Arabia has vowed a “firm” response after a new wave of Houthi missile and drone attacks wounded 13 civilians in the kingdom’s south, marking another escalation in the rapidly intensifying Yemen conflict.

The Saudi-led coalition said the attacks targeted Khamis Mushait, Abha and Taif, causing minor to moderate injuries and damaging seven homes and two vehicles. 

Houthi forces claimed they launched a large-scale assault involving ballistic missiles and drones against the King Khalid airbase in Khamis Mushait.

Saudi Civil Defence also issued air-raid alerts across six regions early Tuesday, including Jeddah, Yanbu, Taif, Abha, Jazan and Alula, before declaring that the danger had passed.

Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said Riyadh would take “all necessary operational measures” to deter further attacks and protect Saudi sovereignty and civilians. 

The Houthis, meanwhile, vowed to continue and escalate their attacks as long as Saudi military operations against them continue.

Houthi forces have advanced along the Red Sea coast and captured strategic territory, increasing concerns over the security of the Bab al-Mandeb shipping route.