Houthi missile attack in Yemen leaves around 40 dead or injured

Around 40 people were killed or injured on Monday when ballistic missiles struck a military training camp in Yemen’s eastern Shabwa province according to local officials as escalating Houthi attacks heightened security concerns across the Middle East.

SHABWA: Around 40 people were killed or injured on Monday when ballistic missiles struck a military training camp in Yemen’s eastern Shabwa province according to local officials as escalating Houthi attacks heightened security concerns across the Middle East.

The missiles hit Al-Alam camp in the Jardan district where newly recruited personnel were reportedly receiving training before joining Yemen’s security forces local media outlet Yemen Monitor reported.

Shabwa’s deputy governor said the attack caused around 40 casualties. Local sources cited by the outlet also reported the initial toll although an exact breakdown of deaths and injuries was not immediately available.

A spokesperson for Yemen’s armed forces said the Houthis fired three ballistic missiles at a training facility used by security and police personnel. The spokesperson accused the group of targeting Yemenis across different provinces. The Houthis had not immediately commented on the reported strike.

Separately, the US Embassy in Riyadh issued a security alert for American citizens in the Middle East, citing the region’s complex security situation and attacks targeting civilian airports and critical infrastructure.

The embassy warned that the hostilities could lead to flight cancellations, airspace closures and significant travel disruptions. It advised Americans travelling to or from the region to monitor airline and airport updates and prepare alternative plans.

The alert also warned that Iran and groups aligned with it could target US interests and locations associated with Americans in different parts of the world.

The developments come as Egypt signals its willingness to support Saudi Arabia amid renewed Houthi attacks on the kingdom.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi sought an urgent parliamentary session to consider authorising military support if Riyadh requested assistance. Parliamentary discussions were expected to continue on Monday, according to lawmakers and local media reports.

The Egyptian presidency said Cairo was prepared to provide necessary support to protect Saudi Arabia’s security, territorial integrity and resources. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty also discussed regional developments and de-escalation with his Saudi counterpart.

The Houthis have reportedly intensified attacks on Saudi targets including Riyadh’s international airport and state oil company Saudi Aramco. Renewed fighting between the group and Saudi-backed forces has also increased concerns about the strategic Bab el-Mandeb shipping route.

Any direct Egyptian military involvement could widen the regional conflict which has already threatened energy supplies and contributed to rising oil prices.