Saudi Arabia Says It Intercepted Wave of Houthi Missiles as Oil Prices Climb to One-Week High

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi movement, according to the Saudi-led coalition, as the latest round of attacks pushed oil prices to a one-week high amid fears of supply disruptions.

The coalition said the missiles were aimed at Taif, in western Saudi Arabia, and the Yanbu area on the Red Sea, which serves as a key alternative route for Saudi oil exports.

The Houthis, for their part, claimed their attacks were aimed at what they described as "a sensitive target" in the Saudi capital Riyadh, as well as Saudi Aramco facilities in Yanbu.

Markets react to renewed tensions

The exchange of attacks and claims added to concerns in oil markets about potential disruptions to Saudi crude supply routes, contributing to the increase in prices. Saudi authorities have not reported any casualties or damage from the intercepted missiles.

The incident is the latest in a series of missile and drone attacks the Houthis have carried out against Saudi Arabia in recent years, part of a broader regional confrontation involving Iran-aligned groups.