Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, Jul 25: Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed to have launched missile strikes targeting Saudi Arabia early on Saturday, signalling a further escalation of their role in the widening Middle East conflict, even as the United States appeared to have ended its 13-day military campaign against Iran.

According to the Houthis, the missile attack was carried out on Saturday morning, although the group did not immediately provide details of the targets or the type of missiles used.

Saudi authorities issued emergency alerts at around 6:10 am local time for residents in the provinces of Jazan and Yanbu, urging them to immediately seek shelter following reports of a possible missile threat.

Shortly afterwards, Saudi officials lifted the warning for Jazan, stating in a post on X that the "danger has passed." However, no immediate announcement was made regarding Yanbu, and authorities did not provide details about any interceptions, damage or casualties.

The reported attack comes amid heightened regional tensions following nearly two weeks of US military strikes on Iranian targets. The latest Houthi claim suggests the Iran-backed group is expanding its involvement in the broader regional conflict, which has increasingly drawn in multiple countries and armed groups.

Saudi Arabia has not officially confirmed the Houthi claim of a successful missile strike. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage, and the kingdom has yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident.

The Houthis have previously launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia during the Yemen conflict, with many attacks intercepted by Saudi air defence systems. Saturday's claimed strike marks another reminder of the volatile security situation in the region as fears grow over a wider escalation of the Middle East conflict.