Escalating Tensions: Saudi Arabia and Houthis Exchange Fire as US Targets Tanker in Hormuz Strait

The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels has intensified, with both sides engaging in a fierce exchange of fire. The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile attack on the Saudi city of Jizan, which sparked emergency alerts in the province. This retaliation came after Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes on Houthi targets in the Yemeni port city of Hodeida and a nearby island. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of the US, which has been conducting strikes on Iranian targets for 13 consecutive nights. The US military also disabled a tanker ship in the Gulf of Oman that was attempting to evade the American blockade on Iranian ports. The ongoing tensions have led to a surge in crude oil prices, with Brent futures reaching over $100 a barrel earlier this week. The international community is increasingly concerned about the impact of the conflict on global trade and stability. A delegation from Oman has arrived in Tehran for talks on the Strait of Hormuz, while the US and UK are set to hold a conference in London to discuss the situation. The meeting will be attended by high-ranking officials, including US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine.