Houthi rebels threaten more attacks after Aramco strike

TEHRAN: Yemen’s Houthi rebels have threatened further attacks on Saudi airports and oil facilities, as reports emerged of extensive damage to the headquarters of Saudi oil giant Aramco following a strike in Dhahran. The reported attack allegedly destroyed three upper floors of the building and triggered a fire that spread across several floors.

According to sources cited in the reports, the damage to the Aramco headquarters was extensive. Employees have reportedly been working from home following the incident. However, the full extent of the damage and the circumstances surrounding the attack were not independently confirmed in the supplied report.

The latest developments have heightened security concerns across Saudi Arabia, with reports of missile activity near the capital, Riyadh. The Saudi-led military coalition said it intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile on Wednesday. Several loud explosions were also reportedly heard in the Saudi capital.

Sources said debris fell after a ballistic missile was intercepted in the air over Riyadh, injuring one person. A residential house and a vehicle also sustained minor damage, according to the report.

The Houthis have reportedly claimed that they targeted an oil refinery in Riyadh and King Khalid International Airport with ballistic missiles. They have also announced plans for additional attacks on Saudi oil installations and airports, raising concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the kingdom.

The reported attacks have also disrupted aviation and sporting events in Saudi Arabia. Italy’s ITA Airways has extended the suspension of its flights to Riyadh until November 18. Meanwhile, a tennis tournament in Saudi Arabia and three Saudi Pro League football matches have reportedly been postponed following the Houthi attacks.

The developments come amid growing regional tensions and concerns over the security of international shipping routes. Two Singapore-flagged commercial vessels were reportedly targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, with one of the ships sinking. The incidents have added to fears that the widening conflict could further disrupt maritime trade and energy supplies.

Separately, Yemen’s internationally recognised government has reportedly raised concerns with China over the alleged use of Chinese technology by the Houthi movement. The move could add another diplomatic dimension to the conflict, particularly as regional governments seek to determine the sources of military equipment being used in attacks.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has also said that the country has acquired highly advanced weapons. Iranian officials have warned that Tehran is prepared to respond to any new aggression with greater force than before.

Iran has further warned the United States that any renewed confrontation would carry more painful consequences. The statement signals Tehran’s determination to strengthen its military response amid escalating hostilities in the region.

The reported damage to Saudi energy infrastructure, threats against airports and disruptions to shipping and commercial activities underline the potential economic consequences of the expanding conflict. Further attacks could increase risks to energy supplies, international transport and regional stability.

The situation remains fluid, and the reported claims concerning the Aramco headquarters, missile targets and damage require independent verification.