Middle East tensions rise as Houthi rebels claim Saudi jet shootdown

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following intensified fighting in Yemen. Houthi rebels claimed to have shot down a Saudi Arabian F-15 fighter jet over the Marib province using a locally manufactured air-to-air missile. The Houthis also accused Saudi Arabia of launching 450 attacks.

In response to the regional instability, the United States embassy in Saudi Arabia advised citizens to reconsider travel to the kingdom, citing risks from Iranian drones, missiles, and Houthi rebels. The embassy specifically warned against traveling near the Yemeni border due to terrorist threats.

Simultaneously, Yemeni government forces launched airstrikes against Houthi military sites, including missile launch platforms, radar, and communication equipment, in the northern and western areas of Marib province. These operations follow Houthi advances toward the western coast and the Red Sea islands.

In the United States, the Republican-led House of Representatives passed a resolution to limit President Donald Trump’s powers regarding the war with Iran. The resolution passed with 220 votes in favor and 204 against, receiving support from all Democrats and seven Republicans.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reported that at least 100,000 people have been displaced since fighting resumed, with thousands fleeing toward Djibouti.