Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis killed at least 58 government troops in ballistic missile and drone strikes on military positions, according to a military source, marking one of the deadliest days of Yemen’s civil war in four years. The attacks coincided with cross-border strikes that wounded 11 civilians in Saudi Arabia, drawing the region deeper into the broader US-Israeli confrontation with Iran.
Deadly Clashes and Houthi Justifications
The Thursday strikes targeted government camps in a severe escalation of violence. According to a military official speaking on condition of anonymity, Thursday’s attacks on troop camps were the worst in Yemen since 2022. Medical sources had earlier spoken of 38 dead.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated that the rebels launched the ballistic missiles and drones in response to an alleged military buildup backed by Saudi Arabia. In a formal statement, Yemen’s defense ministry announced that its armed forces would respond to the offensive “at the appropriate place and time.”
Cross-Border Impact in Saudi Arabia
The violence spilled directly across the border into southern Saudi Arabia. Major General Turki al-Maliki, spokesman for the Saudi-led military coalition supporting the internationally recognized Yemeni government, reported that Houthi shelling in the southern Najran region injured seven Saudi nationals, one Yemeni, two Egyptians, and one Pakistani.
Did you know? Among the casualties in the southern Najran Province was a four-year-old child who suffered second-degree burns from the indiscriminate shelling, according to coalition figures.
Maliki accused the Houthis of violating international humanitarian law by targeting civilian areas. The incident follows a reported Houthi claim of responsibility for an attack on Najran airport earlier in the week, part of an intensifying campaign against Saudi military, infrastructure, and shipping targets.
Regional Security and New Defense Pacts
The widening conflict has prompted regional powers to strengthen security ties. According to two regional sources speaking to Reuters, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan were scheduled to sign a defense agreement in the kingdom. A source close to the Saudi military and government told AFP that the pact had been under discussion for a long time, but that latest regional developments expedited the process.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir arrived in Riyadh on Thursday for a visit scheduled through Saturday. Pakistan’s foreign ministry spokesman, Tahir Andrabi, noted that the visit carries significance beyond the immediate crisis. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan previously announced a joint defense pact in 2025.
Intelligence Warnings and Diplomatic Efforts
A senior Saudi official, speaking anonymously, revealed that intelligence findings from Saudi Arabia, the United States, and other Middle Eastern nations indicate the Houthis and Iraqi militias operating under the supervision of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps could soon launch coordinated attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, ports, and airports.
Despite these threats, the senior official noted that Riyadh continues to support de-escalation and a negotiated settlement with Iran, warning that the planned attacks may be intended to disrupt ongoing diplomacy. Cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the United States remains very high at all operational levels, including with US Central Command, according to the official.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the recent escalation in Yemen?
According to Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, the group launched ballistic missiles and drones in response to an alleged military buildup backed by Saudi Arabia.
Who was injured in the cross-border attacks inside Saudi Arabia?
Major General Turki al-Maliki stated that 11 civilians were wounded in Najran Province, including seven Saudis, one Yemeni, two Egyptians, and one Pakistani national.
What international defense agreements are currently underway?
Regional sources reported that Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan were set to sign a defense agreement in the kingdom amid heightened regional tensions.
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