Two Indians were among the three killed in a drone&nbsp;attack near Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)'s storage facility in United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s capital Abu Dhabi.

The third deceased person is reportedly from Pakistan, while six were left injured.&nbsp;The attack was claimed by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels even as a civil war in the country intensifies.

Indian envoy to UAE&nbsp;Sunjay Sudhir confirmed to WION the death of two Indians and said they are "in the process of ascertaining the identity of the victims".

He added that "top priority is to reach out to the families of those who have died."&nbsp;

After a preliminary investigation,&nbsp;UAE authorities said that the incident was a possible drone attack.

This is the second time that Indians have been the collateral targets as Iran based Houthis continued to fight a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the UAE.&nbsp;

On January 3, a UAE flagged Rwabee vessel was hijacked by Houthis off the port of Hodeidah&nbsp;in Yemen. Seven of the 11 crew onboard are Indians and still remain under the rebel's custody.

Asserting that India is "making all efforts to secure their early release", India's ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "We urge the Houthis to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members and release them immediately."

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The matter was even raised by the Indian envoy at the United Nations Security Council during a debate on the Yemen crisis.

Expressing "grave concern" at the hijacking of the Rawabi vessel, Indian envoy to United Nations T&nbsp;S&nbsp;Tirumurti said, "We urge the Houthis to immediately release the crew members and the vessel".&nbsp;

He said that "Houthis also bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the crew members till their release."

The present Yemen crisis is being seen to be spilling over the West Asian region, where India has a huge diaspora.

UAE houses one of the largest Indian populations. The Indian expatriate community of approx. 3.3 million is the largest ethnic community residing in the region and they constitute&nbsp;roughly around 30 per cent of the UAE’s population.

Among the Indian States, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. &nbsp;Indians from the northern states also form a significant portion of the Indian population in UAE.

Yemen has been in a state of civil war since 2011 ever since the Arab Spring movement,&nbsp;where the country's former president, Ali Abdullah Saleh was ousted.

Since 2015, a nine-country coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been intervening in the country unsuccessfully. Houthis have also in the past attacked oil facilities in Saudi Arabia.

Two Indians were among the three killed in a drone attack near Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)'s storage facility in United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s capital Abu Dhabi.

Two Indians were among the three killed in a drone attack near Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)'s storage facility in United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s capital Abu Dhabi. The third deceased person is reportedly from Pakistan, while six were left injured. The attack was claimed by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels even as a civil war in the country intensifies. Indian envoy to UAE Sunjay Sudhir confirmed to WION the death of two Indians and said they are "in the process of ascertaining the identity of the victims". He added that "top priority is to reach out to the families of those who have died." After a preliminary investigation, UAE authorities said that the incident was a possible drone attack. This is the second time that Indians have been the collateral targets as Iran based Houthis continued to fight a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the UAE. On January 3, a UAE flagged Rwabee vessel was hijacked by Houthis off the port of Hodeidah in Yemen. Seven of the 11 crew onboard are Indians and still remain under the rebel's custody. Asserting that India is "making all efforts to secure their early release", India's ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "We urge the Houthis to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members and release them immediately." Watch The matter was even raised by the Indian envoy at the United Nations Security Council during a debate on the Yemen crisis. Expressing "grave concern" at the hijacking of the Rawabi vessel, Indian envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti said, "We urge the Houthis to immediately release the crew members and the vessel". He said that "Houthis also bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the crew members till their release." The present Yemen crisis is being seen to be spilling over the West Asian region, where India has a huge diaspora. UAE houses one of the largest Indian populations. The Indian expatriate community of approx. 3.3 million is the largest ethnic community residing in the region and they constitute roughly around 30 per cent of the UAE’s population. Among the Indian States, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Indians from the northern states also form a significant portion of the Indian population in UAE. Yemen has been in a state of civil war since 2011 ever since the Arab Spring movement, where the country's former president, Ali Abdullah Saleh was ousted. Since 2015, a nine-country coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been intervening in the country unsuccessfully. Houthis have also in the past attacked oil facilities in Saudi Arabia.

Two Indians among 3 killed in UAE drone attack claimed by Yemen's Houthis

In a further escalation in hostilities in the Yemen war, the Houthi rebels have seized an Emirati flagship in the red sea. According to the Houthis, the vessel was full to the deck with weapons military jeeps, and other ammunition.

Houthi rebels have seized an Emirati flagship in the red sea

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen".

"We targeted the King Khalid Air Base in Riyadh city with four drones, hitting military targets at the King Abdullah International Airport and Aramco oil refineries in Jeddah city with four drones, striking a military target in Abha International Airport in Abha city with a drone, targeting other military sites in the cities of Jazan, Najran and Abha with five drones," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV has reported that the coalition intercepted an explosive-laden drone launched by the Houthis from Sanaa International Airport in Yemen toward Saudi Arabia, and "it is dealing with other Houthi threats", reports Xinhua news agency.

Houthi rebels fighting against the Yemen government are supported by Iran. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition against Houthi rebels.

Houthi rebels have recently intensified cross-border missile and drone attacks.

In February, the rebel group began a major offensive against the Saudi-backed government army to capture the oil-rich province of Marib.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen".

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen". "We targeted the King Khalid Air Base in Riyadh city with four drones, hitting military targets at the King Abdullah International Airport and Aramco oil refineries in Jeddah city with four drones, striking a military target in Abha International Airport in Abha city with a drone, targeting other military sites in the cities of Jazan, Najran and Abha with five drones," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement. Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV has reported that the coalition intercepted an explosive-laden drone launched by the Houthis from Sanaa International Airport in Yemen toward Saudi Arabia, and "it is dealing with other Houthi threats", reports Xinhua news agency. Houthi rebels fighting against the Yemen government are supported by Iran. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition against Houthi rebels. Houthi rebels have recently intensified cross-border missile and drone attacks. In February, the rebel group began a major offensive against the Saudi-backed government army to capture the oil-rich province of Marib. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthi rebels claim launching 14 bomb-laden drones at Saudi targets

Yemen’s Houthi fighters said that they fired 14 drones at several Saudi cities on Saturday, including at Saudi Aramco facilities in Jeddah.

Yemen’s Houthis attack several Saudi cities

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported.

The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years.

Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen.

The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years.

Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen.

The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported.

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported. The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition. Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years. Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen. The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas. The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition. Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years. Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen. The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

Four employees of airport in Saudi Arabia's Abha injured by Houthi drone attack

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks. The revelation was made by the satellite images analysed by AP. &nbsp;

As America's Gulf Arab allies nervously watched the chaotic US troops withdrawal from war-torn Afghanistan, the redeployment of the defences from Prince Sultan Air Base outside Riyadh was carried out. It also included the last-minute evacuations from Kabul airport. &nbsp;

Watch | Afghanistan: UN condemns Taliban's response to peaceful protest

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The tens of thousands of US forces still remain across the Arabian Peninsula to check Iran threat. But Gulf Arab nations worry about the future plans of the US as its military perceives a growing threat in Asia that requires those missile defences. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With the negotiations appearing to be stalled in Vienna over Iran's collapsed nuclear deal with world powers, tensions remain high raising the danger of future confrontations in the region. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-gets-countrys-richest-man-as-pm-amid-economic-turmoil-412310" hreflang="en">Lebanon gets country’s richest man as PM amid economic turmoil</a>

Prince Sultan Air Base is located some 115 kilometers (70 miles) southeast of Riyadh. It has hosted several thousand US troops since a 2019 missile-and-drone attack on the heart of the kingdom's oil production. &nbsp;

Though claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, the attack appears to have been carried out by Iran, say experts and physical debris left behind. Tehran has denied launching the attack. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks.

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks. The revelation was made by the satellite images analysed by AP. As America's Gulf Arab allies nervously watched the chaotic US troops withdrawal from war-torn Afghanistan, the redeployment of the defences from Prince Sultan Air Base outside Riyadh was carried out. It also included the last-minute evacuations from Kabul airport. Watch | Afghanistan: UN condemns Taliban's response to peaceful protest × The tens of thousands of US forces still remain across the Arabian Peninsula to check Iran threat. But Gulf Arab nations worry about the future plans of the US as its military perceives a growing threat in Asia that requires those missile defences. With the negotiations appearing to be stalled in Vienna over Iran's collapsed nuclear deal with world powers, tensions remain high raising the danger of future confrontations in the region. Also Read: Lebanon gets country’s richest man as PM amid economic turmoil Prince Sultan Air Base is located some 115 kilometers (70 miles) southeast of Riyadh. It has hosted several thousand US troops since a 2019 missile-and-drone attack on the heart of the kingdom's oil production. Though claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, the attack appears to have been carried out by Iran, say experts and physical debris left behind. Tehran has denied launching the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Even as Houthi attacks continue, US removes missile defences in Saudi Arabia

The Iran-allied insurgents escalated their efforts to seize Marib, the government's last stronghold in northern Yemen, in February, and the fighting has killed hundreds on both sides.

Control of the oil-rich region would strengthen the Huthis' bargaining position in peace talks, but the battle has also raised fears of a humanitarian catastrophe, as many Yemenis had fled to the area to escape fighting in other parts of the country.

On Tuesday, loyalist officials told AFP that pro-government forces had repelled Huthi attacks north of the city in clashes that left 63 rebel and 27 loyalist fighters dead since Monday.

That came despite relative calm in recent weeks amid efforts by the United Nations and Washington to reach a ceasefire.

One loyalist official told AFP that Huthi attacks had hit a "high rate" since Monday.&nbsp;

Yemen's conflict flared in 2014 when the Huthis seized the capital Sanaa, prompting a Saudi-led military intervention to prop up the government the following year.&nbsp;

The fighting has killed tens of thousands and left some 80 percent of Yemenis dependent on aid, in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

The war has also displaced millions of people and left the country on the brink of famine.

While the UN and Washington are pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations.

On Tuesday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said Riyadh was determined to "stop the war and move to the political track" -- but that this "has sadly not met with agreement from the Huthi side".

The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths last week told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war had been "in vain".

The Iran-allied insurgents escalated their efforts to seize Marib, the government's last stronghold in northern Yemen, in February, and the fighting has killed hundreds on both sides.

The Iran-allied insurgents escalated their efforts to seize Marib, the government's last stronghold in northern Yemen, in February, and the fighting has killed hundreds on both sides. Control of the oil-rich region would strengthen the Huthis' bargaining position in peace talks, but the battle has also raised fears of a humanitarian catastrophe, as many Yemenis had fled to the area to escape fighting in other parts of the country. On Tuesday, loyalist officials told AFP that pro-government forces had repelled Huthi attacks north of the city in clashes that left 63 rebel and 27 loyalist fighters dead since Monday. That came despite relative calm in recent weeks amid efforts by the United Nations and Washington to reach a ceasefire. One loyalist official told AFP that Huthi attacks had hit a "high rate" since Monday. Yemen's conflict flared in 2014 when the Huthis seized the capital Sanaa, prompting a Saudi-led military intervention to prop up the government the following year. The fighting has killed tens of thousands and left some 80 percent of Yemenis dependent on aid, in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The war has also displaced millions of people and left the country on the brink of famine. While the UN and Washington are pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations. On Tuesday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said Riyadh was determined to "stop the war and move to the political track" -- but that this "has sadly not met with agreement from the Huthi side". The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths last week told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war had been "in vain".

Fighting between Yemeni loyalists, Houthi rebels kills 90 in two days

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen destroyed a drone launched by Iran-aligned Houthi movement towards the southern Saudi city of Khamis Mushait, Saudi state TV reported. 
 
On Saturday, Saudi air defences had intercepted 17 armed drones the coalition said were launched by Houthis towards the kingdom. 
 
Earlier, Saudi Arabian state media said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition.

The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said.

"The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space.

Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait.

These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed.

The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been 'in vain'.

"It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths.

Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Houthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN.

The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government.

The Houthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen destroyed a drone launched by Iran-aligned Houthi movement towards the southern Saudi city of Khamis Mushait, Saudi state TV reported.

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen destroyed a drone launched by Iran-aligned Houthi movement towards the southern Saudi city of Khamis Mushait, Saudi state TV reported. On Saturday, Saudi air defences had intercepted 17 armed drones the coalition said were launched by Houthis towards the kingdom. Earlier, Saudi Arabian state media said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition. The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia. Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said. "The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait. These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed. The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been 'in vain'. "It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths. Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Houthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN. The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government. The Houthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi-led coalition destroys drone fired by Yemen's Houthis: State TV

As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past

The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said early on Sunday, it destroyed an explosives-laden drone headed towards Khamis Mushait launched by Houthi militia in Yemen, Saudi state TV al-Ekhbariya reported.&nbsp;

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a tweet early on Sunday that an operation targeted Saudi Arabia's King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait with explosives-laden drones, and the hit was accurate.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Saudi-led coalition engaged in Yemen dismissed as 'fabricated' video footage issued by the Houthi movement on Saturday purportedly showing an incursion by its fighters into a Saudi Arabian border area on the frontlines.&nbsp;

Houthi-run Al Masirah television cited a military source as saying more than 80 Saudi soldiers and Sudanese 'mercenaries' were killed or injured, while tens were captured in the operation near Al Khoubah in the southern Saudi region of Jazan.&nbsp;

"Claims by the Houthi militia about executing a military operation on the Jazan border are media fabrications," Saudi state television cited coalition spokesman Brigadier General Turki al-Malki as saying.&nbsp;

Malki said the Houthis' 'imaginary victories' aimed to cover up big military losses suffered by the group in Yemen's Marib and al-Jawf regions.&nbsp;

The war, which in March entered its seventh year, has been in a military stalemate for years with the Iran-aligned Houthis holding most of northern Yemen.&nbsp;

The United Nations and the United States are pressing for a ceasefire needed to end the conflict, widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran.&nbsp;

Some of the video footage on Al Masirah's Telegram account, the authenticity of which could not be independently verified, showed men in military uniform coming under fire as they fled down a rocky mountain slope.&nbsp;

Sudanese troops have been deployed as part of the Saudi-led military alliance that intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from the capital Sanaa. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said early on Sunday, it destroyed an explosives-laden drone headed towards Khamis Mushait launched by Houthi militia in Yemen, Saudi state TV al-Ekhbariya reported.

The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said early on Sunday, it destroyed an explosives-laden drone headed towards Khamis Mushait launched by Houthi militia in Yemen, Saudi state TV al-Ekhbariya reported. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a tweet early on Sunday that an operation targeted Saudi Arabia's King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait with explosives-laden drones, and the hit was accurate. Earlier, the Saudi-led coalition engaged in Yemen dismissed as 'fabricated' video footage issued by the Houthi movement on Saturday purportedly showing an incursion by its fighters into a Saudi Arabian border area on the frontlines. Houthi-run Al Masirah television cited a military source as saying more than 80 Saudi soldiers and Sudanese 'mercenaries' were killed or injured, while tens were captured in the operation near Al Khoubah in the southern Saudi region of Jazan. "Claims by the Houthi militia about executing a military operation on the Jazan border are media fabrications," Saudi state television cited coalition spokesman Brigadier General Turki al-Malki as saying. Malki said the Houthis' 'imaginary victories' aimed to cover up big military losses suffered by the group in Yemen's Marib and al-Jawf regions. The war, which in March entered its seventh year, has been in a military stalemate for years with the Iran-aligned Houthis holding most of northern Yemen. The United Nations and the United States are pressing for a ceasefire needed to end the conflict, widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Some of the video footage on Al Masirah's Telegram account, the authenticity of which could not be independently verified, showed men in military uniform coming under fire as they fled down a rocky mountain slope. Sudanese troops have been deployed as part of the Saudi-led military alliance that intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from the capital Sanaa. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi-led coalition destroys explosives-laden drone headed for Khamis Mushait: State TV 

Heavy fighting near the Yemeni city of Marib has killed 96 combatants over the past two days as the Houthi rebels have stepped up their offensive on the government's last northern toehold.

Houthi rebels attack Yemen forces: 96 killed in fighting near Marib

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition.&nbsp;

The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki.

"Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA.&nbsp;

Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes".&nbsp;

A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco.

Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television.

On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities.&nbsp;

Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government.

It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.&nbsp;

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said. Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition. The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki. "Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA. Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes". A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco. Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television. On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities. Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government. It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.

Houthi missile debris sparks fire at Saudi university

Despite occasional peace overtures, the conflict in Yemen is continuing unabated, with Saudi Arabia and Iran supporting either sides of the surrogate war.

On Monday, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed to have launched drone strikes against Saudi energy giant Aramco's facilities, amid an upsurge in fighting between the insurgents and the Riyadh-backed government in northern Yemen.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the group had fired 17 drones and two missiles towards the kingdom.

On Sunday, the Saudi-led coalition said it had intercepted and destroyed six armed Houthi drones.

The coalition entered the war after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from the capital Sanaa. Last week, intense fighting between pro-government forces and Houthi rebels on three fronts, in which missiles and machine guns were fired, killed 70 people in a day.

When will this conflict end?

When Saudi Arabia recently offered peace to Houthi rebels, the message was clear: “The Houthis must decide whether to put their interests first or Iran’s interests first.”

The Houthis rejected the olive branch, saying Riyadh was not offering anything new.

The failure of the peace attempt did not come as a surprise. The Yemeni Civil War that began in 2014 has been in stalemate for a long time.

But the move showed the Gulf kingdom’s sense of urgency to exit the conflict, especially after successful Houthi strikes on Saudi oil facilities.

&nbsp;

The Iran-Saudi Arabia proxy war

The war has become the focal point of the rivalry between the Sunni-dominated Saudi Arabia and Shia-majority Iran.

Saudi intervened in Yemen in 2015, a few months after the Houthis ousted the country’s internationally recognised government from power. Riyadh has been leading a military coalition in favour of the government.

Its intervention has been direct, while Iran’s involvement has been covert. The Islamic Republic has publicly denied that it is providing military support to Houthi rebels who are Shias, though the experts think otherwise.

Saudi’s stakes in Yemen are higher than Iran’s

The scale of Saudi intervention in Yemen should not be underestimated. The Saudi-led coalition includes countries in West Asia, North Africa, and mercenaries. The alliance also received intelligence from the United States.

Yet, the Gulf kingdom has been suffering setbacks. It has been the target of Houthi drone attacks. It is suspected that Iran supplied the unmanned aerial vehicles to Houthis.

The Saudi-led coalition is not as strong on the ground. There have been infighting within local forces supporting the alliance. The coalition also saw withdrawal of members as the war hit an impasse.

Most notably, one of Saudi's main allies UAE pulled the bulk of its troops out of Yemen in 2019.

There has been international criticism of the war which has resulted in civilian casualties and destruction of heritage sites and hospitals, besides causing massive hunger and child malnutrition and deaths, worsened by the coronavirus pandemic.

The United Nations called Yemen situation the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Interestingly, Iran has mostly been spared the global backlash due its underhand role in the war.

Despite all the complications, Saudi is not ready for an unconditional withdrawal.

It’s strategic interests in Yemen are high.

Saudi Arabia shares a border with Yemen and cannot afford to have a pro-Iran establishment led by the Shias as its neighbour.

Iran also has a lot to lose in the prolonged conflict. Funding the proxy war has been taking a toll on the cash-strapped Islamic Republic.

But for the war to resolve, rivals Saudi and Iran will have to come to the negotiation table which seems unlikely in the near future.

Till then, the two countries will continue to remain mired in an unending war

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Despite occasional peace overtures, the conflict in Yemen is continuing unabated, with Saudi Arabia and Iran supporting either sides of the surrogate war. On Monday, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed to have launched drone strikes against Saudi energy giant Aramco's facilities, amid an upsurge in fighting between the insurgents and the Riyadh-backed government in northern Yemen.

Despite occasional peace overtures, the conflict in Yemen is continuing unabated, with Saudi Arabia and Iran supporting either sides of the surrogate war. On Monday, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed to have launched drone strikes against Saudi energy giant Aramco's facilities, amid an upsurge in fighting between the insurgents and the Riyadh-backed government in northern Yemen. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the group had fired 17 drones and two missiles towards the kingdom. On Sunday, the Saudi-led coalition said it had intercepted and destroyed six armed Houthi drones. The coalition entered the war after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from the capital Sanaa. Last week, intense fighting between pro-government forces and Houthi rebels on three fronts, in which missiles and machine guns were fired, killed 70 people in a day. When will this conflict end? When Saudi Arabia recently offered peace to Houthi rebels, the message was clear: “The Houthis must decide whether to put their interests first or Iran’s interests first.” The Houthis rejected the olive branch, saying Riyadh was not offering anything new. The failure of the peace attempt did not come as a surprise. The Yemeni Civil War that began in 2014 has been in stalemate for a long time. But the move showed the Gulf kingdom’s sense of urgency to exit the conflict, especially after successful Houthi strikes on Saudi oil facilities. The Iran-Saudi Arabia proxy war The war has become the focal point of the rivalry between the Sunni-dominated Saudi Arabia and Shia-majority Iran. Saudi intervened in Yemen in 2015, a few months after the Houthis ousted the country’s internationally recognised government from power. Riyadh has been leading a military coalition in favour of the government. Its intervention has been direct, while Iran’s involvement has been covert. The Islamic Republic has publicly denied that it is providing military support to Houthi rebels who are Shias, though the experts think otherwise. Saudi’s stakes in Yemen are higher than Iran’s The scale of Saudi intervention in Yemen should not be underestimated. The Saudi-led coalition includes countries in West Asia, North Africa, and mercenaries. The alliance also received intelligence from the United States. Yet, the Gulf kingdom has been suffering setbacks. It has been the target of Houthi drone attacks. It is suspected that Iran supplied the unmanned aerial vehicles to Houthis. The Saudi-led coalition is not as strong on the ground. There have been infighting within local forces supporting the alliance. The coalition also saw withdrawal of members as the war hit an impasse. Most notably, one of Saudi's main allies UAE pulled the bulk of its troops out of Yemen in 2019. There has been international criticism of the war which has resulted in civilian casualties and destruction of heritage sites and hospitals, besides causing massive hunger and child malnutrition and deaths, worsened by the coronavirus pandemic. The United Nations called Yemen situation the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Interestingly, Iran has mostly been spared the global backlash due its underhand role in the war. Despite all the complications, Saudi is not ready for an unconditional withdrawal. It’s strategic interests in Yemen are high. Saudi Arabia shares a border with Yemen and cannot afford to have a pro-Iran establishment led by the Shias as its neighbour. Iran also has a lot to lose in the prolonged conflict. Funding the proxy war has been taking a toll on the cash-strapped Islamic Republic. But for the war to resolve, rivals Saudi and Iran will have to come to the negotiation table which seems unlikely in the near future. Till then, the two countries will continue to remain mired in an unending war (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

When will we see an end to the war in Yemen?

The fight for control over the strategic region of Marib has heated up in Yemen and loyalist military officials have said that 70 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters have died. The region of Marib is strategic and oil-rich.

Marib is government's last significant pocket of territory. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize Marib since February.

Two officials from pro-government forces told AFP that battles are raging on three fronts outside Marib city as the Huthis mount a concerted push.&nbsp;

The new toll has come after officials on Saturday announced 53 killed on both sides.

The 70 dead included 26 members of the pro-government forces and 44 from Huthi ranks, they said. The rebels rarely disclose their losses.&nbsp;

One of the officials said that the rebels "are launching simultaneous attacks" in the areas of Kassara and Al-Mashjah, northwest of the city, and Jabal Murad in the south.

"They have made progress on the Kassara and Al-Mashjah fronts, but they have been thwarted on the Jabal Murad front," he told AFP.

Houthi rebels are backed by Iran. The rebel overran Yemen's capital Sanaa. Saudi Arabia-led coalition is opposing the rebel.

The loss of Marib can be a huge blow for the Yemeni government.

(With AFP input)

&nbsp;

The fight for control over the strategic region of Marib has heated up in Yemen and loyalist military officials have said that 70 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters have died.

The fight for control over the strategic region of Marib has heated up in Yemen and loyalist military officials have said that 70 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters have died. The region of Marib is strategic and oil-rich. Marib is government's last significant pocket of territory. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize Marib since February. Two officials from pro-government forces told AFP that battles are raging on three fronts outside Marib city as the Huthis mount a concerted push. The new toll has come after officials on Saturday announced 53 killed on both sides. The 70 dead included 26 members of the pro-government forces and 44 from Huthi ranks, they said. The rebels rarely disclose their losses. One of the officials said that the rebels "are launching simultaneous attacks" in the areas of Kassara and Al-Mashjah, northwest of the city, and Jabal Murad in the south. "They have made progress on the Kassara and Al-Mashjah fronts, but they have been thwarted on the Jabal Murad front," he told AFP. Houthi rebels are backed by Iran. The rebel overran Yemen's capital Sanaa. Saudi Arabia-led coalition is opposing the rebel. The loss of Marib can be a huge blow for the Yemeni government. (With AFP input)

Yemen: 70 dead in fighting over Marib region, say loyalist officials

The Saudi-led coalition battling Yemen's Houthi forces has destroyed two explosive-laden boats that the Iran-aligned group planned to use in an 'imminent' attack launched from the Red Sea port of Hodeidah, Saudi state media reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

The coalition in separate statements also said it intercepted and destroyed three armed drones launched towards southern Saudi Arabia, including the city of Khamis Mushait.&nbsp;

The Houthis, who ousted Yemen's internationally recognised government from the capital, Sanaa, and now hold most of north Yemen, have kept up missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia after Riyadh last week presented a new peace initiative.&nbsp;

US Special Envoy Tim Lenderking on Thursday returned to the region to push for the initiative, which includes a nationwide ceasefire.&nbsp;

The Houthis want the coalition to fully lift its sea and air blockade on areas the group controls.&nbsp;

The conflict, seen in the region as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has caused what the United Nations says is the world's largest humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Saudi-led coalition battling Yemen's Houthi forces has destroyed two explosive-laden boats that the Iran-aligned group planned to use in an 'imminent' attack launched from the Red Sea port of Hodeidah, Saudi state media reported on Sunday.

The Saudi-led coalition battling Yemen's Houthi forces has destroyed two explosive-laden boats that the Iran-aligned group planned to use in an 'imminent' attack launched from the Red Sea port of Hodeidah, Saudi state media reported on Sunday. The coalition in separate statements also said it intercepted and destroyed three armed drones launched towards southern Saudi Arabia, including the city of Khamis Mushait. The Houthis, who ousted Yemen's internationally recognised government from the capital, Sanaa, and now hold most of north Yemen, have kept up missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia after Riyadh last week presented a new peace initiative. US Special Envoy Tim Lenderking on Thursday returned to the region to push for the initiative, which includes a nationwide ceasefire. The Houthis want the coalition to fully lift its sea and air blockade on areas the group controls. The conflict, seen in the region as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has caused what the United Nations says is the world's largest humanitarian crisis. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi-led coalition destroys Houthi rigged boats, drones: Report 

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites.

The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday. They have also targeted Aramco facilities in Ras Tanura, Rabigh, Yanbu and Jizan, the group said.

Jizan's attack on the Red Sea struck a distribution facility around 9 pm.

"The attack resulted in a fire in one of the terminal’s tanks," a statement by the Saudi Energy Ministry read. No casualties have been reported yet from these attacks.

As per local reports, Saudi Arabia's air defence intercepted a ballistic missile over the province of Najran.

For now, a specific location has not been revealed about the attacks, but Jizan is home to a new refinery and port facilities for Aramco, an energy giant.

These assaults have seen an alarming increase in Saudi Arabia and an offer of&nbsp;ceasefire has also not offered any resolve.

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites. The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday.

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites. The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday. They have also targeted Aramco facilities in Ras Tanura, Rabigh, Yanbu and Jizan, the group said. Jizan's attack on the Red Sea struck a distribution facility around 9 pm. "The attack resulted in a fire in one of the terminal’s tanks," a statement by the Saudi Energy Ministry read. No casualties have been reported yet from these attacks. As per local reports, Saudi Arabia's air defence intercepted a ballistic missile over the province of Najran. For now, a specific location has not been revealed about the attacks, but Jizan is home to a new refinery and port facilities for Aramco, an energy giant. These assaults have seen an alarming increase in Saudi Arabia and an offer of ceasefire has also not offered any resolve.

Houthi rebels attack Saudi oil facilities, military sites

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was deterred from flying to the United Arab Emirates through Saudi Arabian airspace last week because of the threat of missile fire from Iranian proxies in Yemen.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, whose comments came on Saturday, had called off a visit to the Emirates last week over a spat with neighbouring Jordan, which had temporarily closed its airspace to the Israeli prime minister's flight.&nbsp;

But rather than bypass Jordanian airspace and take a more southerly route across Saudi skies, Netanyahu told Israel's Channel 13, there were also problems a week ago in the skies of Saudi Arabia, referring to recent missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels.&nbsp;

Netanyahu did not elaborate, nor did he say his plane was targeted by the Iran-backed Houthis.&nbsp;

Yemen's Houthi rebels, who control the capital and much of the country's north, have escalated their cross-border attacks on critical Saudi infrastructure in recent weeks, crashing bomb-laden drones and missiles into the kingdom's Patriot missile batteries and revealing gaps in the country's defenses.&nbsp;

Last week, missiles and drones hit one of the world's largest oil shipping ports and halted air traffic toward the international airport in the port city of Jiddah. While Houthi-claimed attacks on Saudi Arabia rarely cause substantial damage, such strikes have roiled the world economy and raise the risk of a disruption in global oil supplies.&nbsp;

Netanyahu was slated to make the first official visit by an Israeli leader to the United Arab Emirates, half a year after the countries established formal relations. He had hoped to use the audience with the UAE's crown prince to boost his reelection campaign less than two weeks before Israel's March 23 parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister's Office said it had difficulties coordinating the flight over Jordanian airspace after Jordan's crown prince canceled a visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, a sensitive holy site under Jordanian custodianship, due to disagreements over security arrangements.&nbsp;

The prime minister insisted that relations between the two countries were positive, adding that Jordan needs good relations with us no less than we need good relations with Jordan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was deterred from flying to the United Arab Emirates through Saudi Arabian airspace last week because of the threat of missile fire from Iranian proxies in Yemen.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was deterred from flying to the United Arab Emirates through Saudi Arabian airspace last week because of the threat of missile fire from Iranian proxies in Yemen. Netanyahu, whose comments came on Saturday, had called off a visit to the Emirates last week over a spat with neighbouring Jordan, which had temporarily closed its airspace to the Israeli prime minister's flight. But rather than bypass Jordanian airspace and take a more southerly route across Saudi skies, Netanyahu told Israel's Channel 13, there were also problems a week ago in the skies of Saudi Arabia, referring to recent missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Netanyahu did not elaborate, nor did he say his plane was targeted by the Iran-backed Houthis. Yemen's Houthi rebels, who control the capital and much of the country's north, have escalated their cross-border attacks on critical Saudi infrastructure in recent weeks, crashing bomb-laden drones and missiles into the kingdom's Patriot missile batteries and revealing gaps in the country's defenses. Last week, missiles and drones hit one of the world's largest oil shipping ports and halted air traffic toward the international airport in the port city of Jiddah. While Houthi-claimed attacks on Saudi Arabia rarely cause substantial damage, such strikes have roiled the world economy and raise the risk of a disruption in global oil supplies. Netanyahu was slated to make the first official visit by an Israeli leader to the United Arab Emirates, half a year after the countries established formal relations. He had hoped to use the audience with the UAE's crown prince to boost his reelection campaign less than two weeks before Israel's March 23 parliamentary elections. The Prime Minister's Office said it had difficulties coordinating the flight over Jordanian airspace after Jordan's crown prince canceled a visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, a sensitive holy site under Jordanian custodianship, due to disagreements over security arrangements. The prime minister insisted that relations between the two countries were positive, adding that Jordan needs good relations with us no less than we need good relations with Jordan. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM avoided Saudi airspace due to Houthi missiles 

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition.&nbsp;

The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said.&nbsp;

They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city.&nbsp;

The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added.&nbsp;

The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference.&nbsp;

"Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said.&nbsp;

The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday. The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition. The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said. They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city. The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added. The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert. It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks. Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference. "Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said. The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered. (With inputs from agencies)

Fighting in Yemen's Marib kills 90 in 24 hours: Sources 

Yemen's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthi-missile-attack-on-riyadh-thwarted-says-saudi-arabia-366731">Houthi</a> rebels claimed responsibility for the missile and drone strikes that targeted Saudi Arabia on Sunday.&nbsp;

Watch:

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The Saudi-led coalition said it had thwarted the Iran-backed rebels attack. Houthi spokesman said it had deployed ballistic missile and nine drones in the Saudi capital and six drones at military sites in Abha and Khamis Mushait.

"With the help of God almighty, the drone and artillery forces have conducted a joint military operation against Saudi Arabia. The operation, called 'the fifth balanced deterrence', was conducted by a Zulfiqar ballistic missile and 15 drones, 9 of which are Samad 3 drones that hit sensitive targets in the Saudi enemy's capital, Riyadh. And 6 more Qasef-2k drones, which targeted military locations in Abha and Khamis Mushait," Yahya Saria Houthi military spokesman said:

Saudi Arabia said it had destroyed six armed drones.

According to the official Saudi press agency, the Saudi-led coalition intercepted the Houthi ballistic missile which had Riyadh as the target. The explosion sent debris raining on civilian homes. At least one home was damaged when fragments of the missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhoods.

However, no casualties were reported in the attack. The Houthi rebels have previously targeted Riyadh with missiles and drones but hadn't claimed responsibility for any of the attacks.

The Houthis have escalated cross-border attacks on the Kingdom even after the United States delisted the rebels as terrorists.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the missile and drone strikes that targeted Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Watch: The Saudi-led coalition said it had thwarted the Iran-backed rebels attack.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the missile and drone strikes that targeted Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Watch: The Saudi-led coalition said it had thwarted the Iran-backed rebels attack. Houthi spokesman said it had deployed ballistic missile and nine drones in the Saudi capital and six drones at military sites in Abha and Khamis Mushait. "With the help of God almighty, the drone and artillery forces have conducted a joint military operation against Saudi Arabia. The operation, called 'the fifth balanced deterrence', was conducted by a Zulfiqar ballistic missile and 15 drones, 9 of which are Samad 3 drones that hit sensitive targets in the Saudi enemy's capital, Riyadh. And 6 more Qasef-2k drones, which targeted military locations in Abha and Khamis Mushait," Yahya Saria Houthi military spokesman said: Saudi Arabia said it had destroyed six armed drones. According to the official Saudi press agency, the Saudi-led coalition intercepted the Houthi ballistic missile which had Riyadh as the target. The explosion sent debris raining on civilian homes. At least one home was damaged when fragments of the missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhoods. However, no casualties were reported in the attack. The Houthi rebels have previously targeted Riyadh with missiles and drones but hadn't claimed responsibility for any of the attacks. The Houthis have escalated cross-border attacks on the Kingdom even after the United States delisted the rebels as terrorists.

Drone and artillery operation conducted against Saudi Arabia, say Yemen's Houthi rebels

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday. Houthi rebels have intensified their efforts top capture Marib. The last stronghold held by Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Houthi rebels have Iran's backing. Yemen's some of the most richest oil fields are located in Marib.

The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a Huthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh, according to the official SPA news agency.

Fragments of missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhood. At least one home was damaged but no casualties were reported, said state-run Al-Ekhbariya television.

AFP correspondents in the Saudi capital reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The night sky lit up with a bright flash following the interception of a missile, state television footage showed.

Separately, the coalition said it intercepted six Huthi drones targeting the kingdom, including the southern cities of Khamis Mushait and Jizan.

Houthi rebels have not immediately claimed responsibility for any of the attacks. The rebels in past, have struck southern areas and have targetted Riyadh with missiles and drones.

The assaults came as Saudi Arabia hosted a Formula E championship on the outskirts of Riyadh, which state media said was attended by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Houthi rebels have intensified cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia after the US delisted the rebels as terrorists.

The designation, imposed by the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end". But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory.

(With AFP inputs)

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday. Houthi rebels have intensified their efforts top capture Marib. The last stronghold held by Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Houthi rebels have Iran's backing. Yemen's some of the most richest oil fields are located in Marib. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a Huthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh, according to the official SPA news agency. Fragments of missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhood. At least one home was damaged but no casualties were reported, said state-run Al-Ekhbariya television. AFP correspondents in the Saudi capital reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The night sky lit up with a bright flash following the interception of a missile, state television footage showed. Separately, the coalition said it intercepted six Huthi drones targeting the kingdom, including the southern cities of Khamis Mushait and Jizan. Houthi rebels have not immediately claimed responsibility for any of the attacks. The rebels in past, have struck southern areas and have targetted Riyadh with missiles and drones. The assaults came as Saudi Arabia hosted a Formula E championship on the outskirts of Riyadh, which state media said was attended by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Houthi rebels have intensified cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia after the US delisted the rebels as terrorists. The designation, imposed by the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen. US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end". But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory. (With AFP inputs)

Houthi missile attack on Riyadh thwarted, says Saudi Arabia

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north. Earlier this month, the Iran-backed rebels resumed a push to capture the city of Marib, 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the rebel-held capital Sanaa.

Marib lies close to some of Yemen's richest oil fields. Capture of Marib will be major prize for the rebels. But fighting raised fears for hundreds of thousands of civilians who have sought shelter in camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

Loyalist military officials told AFP the rebels had been using residents of Al-Zor camp in the province's Sirwah district as "human shields". The rebels captured the area last week

The officials said there had been no let-up in the fighting.

Over the past 24 hours, at least 12 loyalist and 20 rebel fighters had been killed in clashes north and west of Marib, they said.

There was no way to independently verify the death toll but it is clear that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the renewed battle for the city.

Until early last year, Marib had been spared the worst of the civil war that erupted in 2014.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has said it is "extremely concerned" by the recent fighting.&nbsp;

"The ICRC urges all parties to the conflict to take every possible measure to protect the civilians, their properties and all civilian essential infrastructures," it said on Twitter.

The UN has warned of the potential for a humanitarian disaster.&nbsp;

"It puts millions of civilians at risk, especially with the fighting reaching camps for internally displaced persons," envoy Martin Griffiths told the UN Security Council.

\The Huthi offensive came as the new US administration removed the rebels from Washington's blacklist of terrorist organisations in a bid to facilitate aid deliveries to rebel-held areas and pave the way for renewed peace talks.

President Joe Biden has also announced an end to US backing for Saudi offensive operations in Yemen, which he said had created a "humanitarian and strategic catastrophe."&nbsp; 
Observers say the Huthis want to capture Marib to strengthen their hand in eventual peace negotiations.

(With AFP inputs)

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north.

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north. Earlier this month, the Iran-backed rebels resumed a push to capture the city of Marib, 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the rebel-held capital Sanaa. Marib lies close to some of Yemen's richest oil fields. Capture of Marib will be major prize for the rebels. But fighting raised fears for hundreds of thousands of civilians who have sought shelter in camps in the surrounding desert. Loyalist military officials told AFP the rebels had been using residents of Al-Zor camp in the province's Sirwah district as "human shields". The rebels captured the area last week The officials said there had been no let-up in the fighting. Over the past 24 hours, at least 12 loyalist and 20 rebel fighters had been killed in clashes north and west of Marib, they said. There was no way to independently verify the death toll but it is clear that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the renewed battle for the city. Until early last year, Marib had been spared the worst of the civil war that erupted in 2014. The International Committee of the Red Cross has said it is "extremely concerned" by the recent fighting. "The ICRC urges all parties to the conflict to take every possible measure to protect the civilians, their properties and all civilian essential infrastructures," it said on Twitter. The UN has warned of the potential for a humanitarian disaster. "It puts millions of civilians at risk, especially with the fighting reaching camps for internally displaced persons," envoy Martin Griffiths told the UN Security Council. \The Huthi offensive came as the new US administration removed the rebels from Washington's blacklist of terrorist organisations in a bid to facilitate aid deliveries to rebel-held areas and pave the way for renewed peace talks. President Joe Biden has also announced an end to US backing for Saudi offensive operations in Yemen, which he said had created a "humanitarian and strategic catastrophe." Observers say the Huthis want to capture Marib to strengthen their hand in eventual peace negotiations. (With AFP inputs)

Yemen accuses Houthi rebels of using human shields

Saudi Arabia said it foiled a Huthi drone attack on a southern airport Saturday just days before the new US administration is to stop designating the Yemeni rebels as a "terror" group.

Saudi air defences "intercepted and destroyed a drone rigged with explosives which had been launched by the Huthis against Abha airport," the Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels said in a statement quoted by state television.

Abha airport was already targeted by the rebels on Wednesday, when a drone strike left a civilian aircraft ablaze.

The Huthis say that the airport, little more than 100 kilometres (60 miles) from the border, is a legitimate target as it has been used as a base for the coalition's widely condemned bombing campaign in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia and its allies say that Huthi attacks on the airport amount to "war crimes" as the airport is heavily used by Saudis enjoying the milder climate of the mountains around Abha.

Wednesday's drone attack came hot on the heels of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's announcement that he would lift the terror designation of the Huthis imposed by his predecessor Mike Pompeo.

The designation had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Despite nearly six years of Saudi-led military intervention, the Huthis remain in control of the Yemeni capital Sanaa and much of the north, and aid groups say they have little choice but to work with them.

The State Department condemned Wednesday's strike on the airport but Blinken said the terror designation of the Huthi movement would still be lifted as planned next Tuesday.

He said sanctions on individual Huthi leaders would remain in place.

"The United States remains clear-eyed about Ansarullah's&nbsp;malign actions and aggression," Blinken said, referring to the Huthi movement by its formal name.

Saudi Arabia said it foiled a Huthi drone attack on a southern airport Saturday just days before the new US administration is to stop designating the Yemeni rebels as a "terror" group.

Saudi Arabia said it foiled a Huthi drone attack on a southern airport Saturday just days before the new US administration is to stop designating the Yemeni rebels as a "terror" group. Saudi air defences "intercepted and destroyed a drone rigged with explosives which had been launched by the Huthis against Abha airport," the Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels said in a statement quoted by state television. Abha airport was already targeted by the rebels on Wednesday, when a drone strike left a civilian aircraft ablaze. The Huthis say that the airport, little more than 100 kilometres (60 miles) from the border, is a legitimate target as it has been used as a base for the coalition's widely condemned bombing campaign in Yemen. Saudi Arabia and its allies say that Huthi attacks on the airport amount to "war crimes" as the airport is heavily used by Saudis enjoying the milder climate of the mountains around Abha. Wednesday's drone attack came hot on the heels of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's announcement that he would lift the terror designation of the Huthis imposed by his predecessor Mike Pompeo. The designation had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Despite nearly six years of Saudi-led military intervention, the Huthis remain in control of the Yemeni capital Sanaa and much of the north, and aid groups say they have little choice but to work with them. The State Department condemned Wednesday's strike on the airport but Blinken said the terror designation of the Huthi movement would still be lifted as planned next Tuesday. He said sanctions on individual Huthi leaders would remain in place. "The United States remains clear-eyed about Ansarullah's malign actions and aggression," Blinken said, referring to the Huthi movement by its formal name.

Saudi foils new Houthi strike as US set to lift 'terror' tag

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration. The latest decision by the US has come almost immediately after US President Joe Biden said that US was ending support to Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen.

“Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration, which the United Nations and humanitarian organizations have since made clear would accelerate the world’s worst humanitarian crisis,” the official said. The official was quoted by Reuters.

The United Nations describes Yemen as the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of its people in need.

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blacklisted the Houthis on Jan. 19 - a day before Biden took office.

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The Trump administration exempted aid groups, the United Nations, the Red Cross and the export of agricultural commodities, medicine and medical devices from its designation. But U.N. officials and relief groups said the carve-outs were not enough and called for the decision to be revoked.

The crisis in Yemen is largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran

The official quoted by Reuters said that though the terrorist designation of Houthis was being removed, the decision did not mean that US does not oppose their “reprehensible conduct.”

(With Reuters inputs)

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration.

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration. The latest decision by the US has come almost immediately after US President Joe Biden said that US was ending support to Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen. “Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration, which the United Nations and humanitarian organizations have since made clear would accelerate the world’s worst humanitarian crisis,” the official said. The official was quoted by Reuters. The United Nations describes Yemen as the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of its people in need. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blacklisted the Houthis on Jan. 19 - a day before Biden took office. Also Read | Donald Trump writes 'who cares' as he resigns from Screen Actors Guild after facing expulsion notice The Trump administration exempted aid groups, the United Nations, the Red Cross and the export of agricultural commodities, medicine and medical devices from its designation. But U.N. officials and relief groups said the carve-outs were not enough and called for the decision to be revoked. The crisis in Yemen is largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran The official quoted by Reuters said that though the terrorist designation of Houthis was being removed, the decision did not mean that US does not oppose their “reprehensible conduct.” (With Reuters inputs)

Yemen: US to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis.

The decision to blacklist the Iran-aligned group, which could be announced as soon as Monday according to two of the sources, comes as the administration of President-elect Joe Biden prepares to take over from the Trump administration on Jan. 20.

The Trump administration has been piling on sanctions related to Iran in recent weeks, prompting some Biden allies and outside analysts to conclude that Trump aides are seeking to make it harder for the incoming administration to re-engage with Iran and rejoin an international nuclear agreement.

The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

One person familiar with the matter said the Trump administration had worked out certain "allowances" to permit continued delivery of humanitarian supplies to Yemen and insisted that U.S. sanctions rules in most cases leave room for aid organizations to work. The source declined to elaborate.

The designation has been the subject of weeks of fierce debate within the Trump administration and internal disagreements over how to carve out exceptions for aid shipments held up a final decision on the blacklisting, which has been in the works for weeks, multiple sources have said.

A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing government forces fighting the Houthi group. U.N. officials are trying to revive peace talks to end the war as the country`s suffering is also worsened by an economic and currency collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The United Nations describes Yemen as the world`s largest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of the people in need of help. Top U.N. officials have warned that millions of people are facing famine and more money is needed to deliver aid.

The Houthi group, also known as Ansar Allah, is the de facto authority in northern Yemen and aid agencies have to work with it to deliver assistance. Aid workers and supplies also come in through Houthi-controlled Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port.

"This serves no interest at all," Ryan Crocker, a retired U.S. ambassador who served in the Middle East, said of the designation. "Are there elements among the Houthis who have been involved in terrorist acts? Sure. Just as with other groups in the Middle East."

"The Houthis are an integral part of Yemeni society. They always have been. This is making a strategic enemy out of a local force that has been part of Yemen for generations. They are not Iranian pawns."

In November U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Yemen was in "imminent danger of the worst famine the world has seen for decades," warning against any unilateral moves as the United States threatened to blacklist the Houthis.

A spokesman for Guterres declined to comment on Sunday.

Iran`s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The U.S. Treasury Department has the power to carve out exceptions by issuing special licenses to humanitarian groups to ship food and medical supplies to heavily sanctioned countries, as it has done with Iran and Venezuela.

But international relief officials have said such measures have often failed to unblock the flow of aid because banks and insurance companies are worried about running afoul of U.S. sanctions, and that this could also be the case with Yemen.

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis.

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis. The decision to blacklist the Iran-aligned group, which could be announced as soon as Monday according to two of the sources, comes as the administration of President-elect Joe Biden prepares to take over from the Trump administration on Jan. 20. The Trump administration has been piling on sanctions related to Iran in recent weeks, prompting some Biden allies and outside analysts to conclude that Trump aides are seeking to make it harder for the incoming administration to re-engage with Iran and rejoin an international nuclear agreement. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. One person familiar with the matter said the Trump administration had worked out certain "allowances" to permit continued delivery of humanitarian supplies to Yemen and insisted that U.S. sanctions rules in most cases leave room for aid organizations to work. The source declined to elaborate. The designation has been the subject of weeks of fierce debate within the Trump administration and internal disagreements over how to carve out exceptions for aid shipments held up a final decision on the blacklisting, which has been in the works for weeks, multiple sources have said. A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing government forces fighting the Houthi group. U.N. officials are trying to revive peace talks to end the war as the country`s suffering is also worsened by an economic and currency collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic. The United Nations describes Yemen as the world`s largest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of the people in need of help. Top U.N. officials have warned that millions of people are facing famine and more money is needed to deliver aid. The Houthi group, also known as Ansar Allah, is the de facto authority in northern Yemen and aid agencies have to work with it to deliver assistance. Aid workers and supplies also come in through Houthi-controlled Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port. "This serves no interest at all," Ryan Crocker, a retired U.S. ambassador who served in the Middle East, said of the designation. "Are there elements among the Houthis who have been involved in terrorist acts? Sure. Just as with other groups in the Middle East." "The Houthis are an integral part of Yemeni society. They always have been. This is making a strategic enemy out of a local force that has been part of Yemen for generations. They are not Iranian pawns." In November U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Yemen was in "imminent danger of the worst famine the world has seen for decades," warning against any unilateral moves as the United States threatened to blacklist the Houthis. A spokesman for Guterres declined to comment on Sunday. Iran`s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The U.S. Treasury Department has the power to carve out exceptions by issuing special licenses to humanitarian groups to ship food and medical supplies to heavily sanctioned countries, as it has done with Iran and Venezuela. But international relief officials have said such measures have often failed to unblock the flow of aid because banks and insurance companies are worried about running afoul of U.S. sanctions, and that this could also be the case with Yemen.

US to designate Yemen's Houthi movement as foreign terror group as soon as Monday

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