Gulf Allies Urge De-escalation as Proxy Attacks Target Saudi Oil Infrastructure

Global energy markets and regional security face renewed instability as Houthi forces in Yemen launched drone strikes on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jizan province. The attacks injured three people and temporarily halted operations at a secondary refinery, marking a significant escalation in proxy activity. In response, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have signaled growing concern over the disruption of the Gulf’s security architecture, with Saudi officials calling for multilateral talks that avoid direct U.S.-Iran engagement. Economic impacts have intensified, with Brent crude prices rising 5% and Asian LNG prices spiking 8% amid fears of a prolonged blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. While U.S. shale producers are reportedly gaining market share, Gulf exporters are estimated to be losing $2 billion daily. The humanitarian situation is also deteriorating, with approximately 15,000 seafarers currently stranded due to maritime closures, prompting urgent calls from UN officials for the establishment of safe transit corridors. President Trump addressed the situation via social media, defending U.S. blockade policies as a necessary enforcement of ceasefire terms while criticizing Iranian restrictions. Despite the heightened rhetoric and proxy strikes, back-channel diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan are reportedly exploring potential sanctions relief in exchange for a stand-down of proxy forces, though no formal agreements have been reached.