Kathmandu— At least four people were killed when Houthi forces launched an attack on the Red Sea port city of al-Makha (Mocha) in Yemen on Friday, according to the country’s internationally recognized government. The attack, which involved six ballistic missiles targeting civilian infrastructure and national assets at the port, comes amid a broader escalation of hostilities between the Iran-aligned Houthi group and its Saudi-backed opponents, raising concerns about a potential return to large-scale conflict in Yemen.

Escalating Hostilities

The attack on al-Makha represents an increase in violence between the Houthis and the Yemeni government. The armed forces aligned with the government reported that several fishing boats were set ablaze during the missile strike, which targeted both civilian infrastructure and national assets at the port. A military official from Yemen’s government told AFP news agency that at least eight people were killed, including two security personnel, though this figure differs from the initial report of four deaths released by the government.

Houthi Claims of Targeted Strikes

The Houthis claim to have targeted what they described as buildups, weapons and warships belonging to Saudi-backed forces and “mercenaries” in al-Makha. According to the group, a large number of ballistic missiles were used to destroy boats and weapons at the port. Separately, Houthi-run SABA news agency reported that the group had targeted an Aramco facility in Najran, Saudi Arabia with a drone, claiming it was retaliation for Saudi military aircraft entering airspace over Yemen’s Saada governorate.

Regional Tensions Remain High

The escalation of violence occurs during a period of heightened regional tensions surrounding the conflict between the US and Iran. The Houthis have become a key front in this broader struggle, increasing the risk of wider conflict within Yemen itself. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation remain stalled, with Iran demanding an end to the US blockade and sanctions.

Recent Attacks and Diplomatic Impasse

Thursday saw another Houthi attack, targeting an Aramco refinery in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, with two drones. This follows a pattern of escalating attacks by the group on Saudi infrastructure. Despite these ongoing hostilities, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has called for the US to end its blockade and lift sanctions, while President Trump has demanded reparations from Iran.

The situation in Yemen remains volatile as regional tensions continue to rise, with no immediate resolution or de-escalation efforts apparent.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.