RIYADH — At least 73 people were injured after a series of attacks by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group struck parts of southern Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, according to Saudi authorities.
The attacks affected several areas, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran. Fires were reported at a number of energy facilities and other sites following the attacks.
Saudi emergency teams and firefighters were deployed to contain the fires and assess the damage. Authorities said operations at some affected energy facilities were temporarily disrupted.
Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest oil producers, making any attack on its energy infrastructure a major concern for global oil markets and energy supplies.
The latest attacks come amid a sharp escalation in regional tensions. The Houthis have previously threatened Saudi interests and have launched missile and drone attacks in the region.
Saudi officials have condemned the latest attacks and warned that the kingdom would take necessary measures to protect its territory and critical infrastructure.
The attacks also raise concerns about wider disruption to oil shipments and energy markets, particularly as tensions are already high across the Middle East and around important regional shipping routes.
Reports indicated that damage to some Saudi energy facilities was still being assessed. The full impact on oil production and exports was not immediately clear.
The latest escalation could further increase pressure on global energy markets if attacks on oil infrastructure continue.
Officials are continuing to investigate the extent of the damage and the number of casualties.
This is a developing story. More information is expected as Saudi authorities and other regional officials release additional details.