Saudi Arabia Strikes in Yemen; Houthi Leader Claims Riyadh is "Defending Israel"

On Thursday, explosions were reported in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, which is controlled by the Houthi terrorist organization. According to Arab media reports, Saudi Arabia is responsible for the attack, though it has not claimed official responsibility.

Leader of the Houthi terrorist organization, Abdul-Malik Badr al-Din al-Houthi, responded to the military operation on his territory:

"The Saudi aggression has intensified the siege on Yemen following our actions in support of Gaza, and in doing so, has served the Israeli enemy."

Earlier this week, Saudi media reported the elimination of a senior commander in the Houthi intelligence apparatus along with his escort during a mysterious operation in Sanaa. Local sources stated that the commander was shot by gunmen while driving near the local airport. The attackers managed to flee the scene, and their identities or the party behind the operation remain unknown.

This is not the first such elimination in recent times. According to Saudi media, there have been numerous targeted strikes against Houthi commanders and terrorists. The Kingdom noted that the success of this latest operation, despite the official being under heavy security, combined with the organization's unusual behavior, raises questions regarding the Houthis' control over their territory.

Sources in Yemen noted that the escalation of such events reflects the fragility of the organization's security system. Furthermore, these eliminations expose a hidden conflict between various factions within the Iranian-backed militia as they fight for influence, resources, and leadership positions.