Riyadh, September 15: Tensions in the Middle East intensified on Tuesday after Yemen’s Houthi forces launched missile and drone strikes against targets in Saudi Arabia, injuring 13 civilians, according to Reuters.

The strikes reportedly targeted areas including a military base in Khamis Mushait and came in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes in Yemen. The Houthis have also seized strategic positions along Yemen’s western coast, including Perim Island near the entrance to the Red Sea.

The escalation has raised fresh concerns over regional energy supplies. A Saudi east-west oil pipeline has also come under pressure following a recent attack, increasing concerns about disruptions to crude exports.

Meanwhile, diplomatic talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz have been postponed. The waterway remains effectively closed amid the wider regional confrontation, creating further uncertainty for global energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz is a major route for international oil shipments. Prolonged disruption could affect global crude supplies and push energy prices higher.

The latest developments have heightened concerns that the conflict could widen across the Gulf region, as diplomatic efforts to ease tensions face fresh challenges.