Yemen’s Houthi movement has accused Saudi Arabia of striking an oil facility in Sanaa as tensions rise sharply between the two sides.
The Houthis said the attack targeted the Al-Sabaha oil facility on the western outskirts of the Yemeni capital. An AFP correspondent in Sanaa reported hearing an explosion after the strike was announced. Saudi-led coalition forces had earlier warned civilians to leave the area.
The coalition had identified a Yemen Petroleum Company facility as a potential target following a series of Houthi attacks on Saudi airports and energy infrastructure.
However, the Saudi-led coalition had not immediately confirmed carrying out the reported strike.
Before the attack, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree threatened retaliation if Saudi forces targeted the oil site. He named Riyadh International Airport, a refinery and an Aramco facility in Dammam as possible targets.
The warning came days after an attack on Riyadh airport reportedly killed 13 people and forced the suspension of operations.
Residents in Sanaa rushed to fuel stations after the coalition evacuation warning, fearing possible shortages. The Yemen Petroleum Company said fuel stocks remained available at secure locations and were sufficient to meet demand for an extended period.
Saudi Arabia also faced fresh threats on Tuesday. Coalition forces said they intercepted three drones north of Riyadh.
The renewed fighting has intensified regional concerns over energy security, aviation and civilian safety. Several countries have issued travel warnings for Saudi Arabia amid the escalating conflict.
The Yemen war has already produced a severe humanitarian crisis. Renewed hostilities are now increasing pressure on civilians, healthcare systems and regional trade routes.
