Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have once again targeted Saudi Arabia. According to the Saudi-led military coalition, the Houthis launched multiple attacks using ballistic missiles and drones in southern Saudi Arabia. Thirteen civilians were injured in these attacks.
A coalition spokesperson stated on the social media platform X that on Monday, September 14, 2026, Houthi militias targeted civilian sites in the cities of Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif. The injured sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate. Additionally, seven homes and two vehicles were damaged.
Houthis’ Growing Grip on the Red Sea
The activities of Houthi rebels are not limited to Saudi Arabia alone. Reports indicate that these rebels have also established control over the strategically important Greater and Lesser Hanish islands in the southern Red Sea.
Seizing these islands could strengthen the Houthis’ strategic position regarding vital maritime routes in the Red Sea. Recent clashes between Iran-backed Houthi rebels and government forces in Yemen have resulted in a large number of deaths and the displacement of thousands of people.
Impact on a Key Saudi Oil Pipeline
Meanwhile, concerns have mounted regarding the repair of a crucial Saudi oil pipeline. According to regional officials, it could take three to five weeks to fix the pipeline, which was damaged in an attack last week. The pipeline is likely to remain shut for most of this period.
Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s major crude oil exporters. Consequently, the importance of the alternative routes available to it for transporting oil to the market has increased.
Increased Reliance on the 1,200-Kilometer East-West Pipeline
Saudi Arabia uses the East-West pipeline to transport its crude oil from ports in the Gulf region to the Yanbu port on the Red Sea. This pipeline, spanning approximately 1,200 kilometers, is crucial for Saudi Arabia’s oil exports.
Upon reaching Yanbu, the crude oil can be loaded onto tankers and shipped to international markets. However, the pipeline had to be shut down following a drone attack last week. Saudi Arabia has blamed drones operated by an Iran-backed militia active in Iraq for the attack.
Amidst ongoing attacks, pressure appears to be mounting on Saudi Arabia’s security and oil export infrastructure.
