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Security correspondent Frank Gardner explains how the Houthis — an Iran-backed movement in Yemen — have proven difficult for Saudi forces to gain the upper hand. Source: bbc.co.uk.
What Happened
On a recent day, the Houthis launched missile strikes on Riyadh’s airport and oil facilities in eastern Saudi Arabia.
The attacks killed at least 14 people and injured more than 300. A military spokesman, Brig Gen Yahya Saree, confirmed the strikes on Dammam airport and oil infrastructure.
The Houthis say they acted in retaliation for what they describe as ‘brutal Saudi aggression’ against areas they control in western Yemen.
Key Facts
- The Houthis are an Iran-backed group operating in Yemen.
- They have conducted precision strikes on Saudi infrastructure, including airports and oil facilities.
- These attacks have led to significant casualties and infrastructure damage in Saudi Arabia.
- Saudi Arabia’s energy minister has vowed a response to the attacks.
Background: How the Houthis Operate
The Houthis began as a Shia Muslim movement in the 1990s. They gained strength through regional alliances and support from Iran.
They are known for using guerrilla tactics — small, fast, and mobile attacks — rather than large-scale conventional warfare.
These tactics allow them to strike key targets with precision, often with minimal warning or large-scale troop movements.
Missile strikes and drone attacks are common, enabling them to hit high-value targets like airports and oil facilities.
Why It Matters
The attacks have disrupted Saudi operations and raised concerns about regional stability.
As a key energy hub, Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure is vital to global markets. Damage to these facilities could affect energy supply.
The conflict also highlights the growing influence of Iran-backed groups in Yemen and their ability to project power beyond the region.
Limitations and Open Questions
While the Houthis have shown tactical skill, their long-term military capacity remains limited by logistics and access to advanced weapons.
There is no public data on the full scale of their arsenal or how many fighters they have.
How far these attacks will escalate remains uncertain, especially without a clear diplomatic resolution.
What to Watch Next
Observers will be watching for:
- Further attacks on Saudi infrastructure.
- Any response from Saudi or international forces.
- How the situation evolves in the broader Yemen conflict.
For more on the conflict, see the BBC’s full report: Who are the Houthis, and why are they so hard to fight?
These developments underscore the complexity of regional security dynamics in the Middle East.
