Houthis Target Aramco and Al-Mukha Following Mecca Defense Pact

Houthis launched coordinated strikes on vital facilities in Saudi Arabia and Yemen, targeting an Aramco refinery in Jizan and central army positions in Al-Mukha, signaling rising regional tensions.
Intensified Military Escalation
The attacks occurred shortly after Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed a historic defense pact in Mecca, which includes provisions for collective military response actions.
Houthis view this alliance, dubbed the Sunni Axis, as directly targeting them, particularly due to clauses dedicated to defending the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Pakistan's Firm Stance
Islamabad declared any attack on its tankers in the strait a threat to national security, yet Pakistani vessels continue transit despite perceived risks and ongoing hostilities.
The rebels appear to be testing the resolve of this new coalition, aiming to challenge the defensive strength anticipated from the recently signed agreement.
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