Yemen’s internationally recognised government has reported that a Houthi ballistic missile strike on the Red Sea port of al-Makha (Mocha) resulted in at least four deaths. Officials stated that six missiles were fired at the location on Friday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the Iran-aligned group and its Saudi-backed adversaries.
Government-aligned armed forces indicated that the assault targeted civilian infrastructure and national assets, causing several fishing vessels to catch fire. While initial reports confirmed four civilian fatalities, an unnamed military official speaking to AFP claimed the death toll reached at least eight, including two security personnel.
In a statement, the Houthis claimed they targeted what they described as weapons depots, military buildups, and warships belonging to Saudi-backed forces and “mercenaries.” They asserted that their ballistic missile barrage successfully destroyed various weapons and boats in the area.
This surge in violence occurs against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran, raising concerns about a return to large-scale warfare in Yemen. The Houthi-run SABA news agency also reported that the group targeted an Aramco facility in the Saudi city of Najran with a drone, framing the action as a response to Saudi military aircraft entering airspace over Yemen’s Saada governorate. There has been no immediate confirmation from Saudi authorities or Aramco regarding the status of the Najran facility.
These incidents follow a separate claim by the Houthis on Thursday regarding a drone attack on an Aramco refinery in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The broader regional situation remains volatile as US-Iran diplomatic efforts remain at a standstill. Recently, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council issued demands for the US to lift sanctions, end its blockade, withdraw military forces, and provide reparations. US President Donald Trump rejected these demands, instead calling for Iran to pay compensation, even as Iran and Oman progress toward an agreement on a new transit corridor through the Strait of Hormuz.