Saudi-led coalition orders evacuation of Yemen oil facility in Sanaa ahead of operation
USO•A Saudi-led coalition urged civilians to evacuate the Yemen Oil Company’s Sabah central station in Sanaa ahead of a planned military operation. The Houthis warned that strikes on Sanaa would prompt a response in Riyadh and told people near Saudi Aramco facilities to evacuate.
1. Evacuation warning
The Saudi-led coalition urged civilians on Tuesday to leave the Yemen Oil Company’s Sabah central station in Sanaa ahead of a planned military operation. Its joint forces command identified the site on a map and said civilians should leave for their safety.
2. Threats and escalation
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree warned that any strikes on Sanaa would be met with a “harsh and painful” response in Riyadh. The Houthis also told employees and civilians near Saudi Aramco oil facilities to evacuate, calling the facilities legitimate targets.
3. Conflict context
Fighting has escalated as the Houthis attack Saudi airports and oil facilities. Saudi Arabia has launched strikes against the Houthis and backed a Yemeni government counteroffensive after the group seized strategic territory along the Red Sea coast last month. The conflict has disrupted air travel in Saudi Arabia, and Riyadh airport remained closed after a deadly missile strike on Saturday claimed by the Houthis.
