Shocking Gulf Attacks: Saudi Mosque Hit and Strait of Hormuz Blast Stun Region

Violence erupted across the Gulf on Sunday, September 13, 2026, as a Houthi projectile struck a mosque in the Al-Tuwal governorate of Jazan, Saudi Arabia, wounding two civilians and damaging nearby buildings and vehicles. Saudi Civil Defence confirmed the civilian casualties and property damage, describing the act as a violation of international humanitarian law.

Meanwhile, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed a separate drone-and-missile strike targeted the Sharurah military base in Najran, alleging that weapons depots and command centers were hit. While Saudi authorities have not verified the Sharurah claims, regional tensions remain elevated following last Tuesday's attacks across Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran, which injured 73 people and caused a temporary closure of the East-West pipeline.

Strait of Hormuz Vessel Struck

Simultaneously, a commercial vessel was struck by an unknown projectile near Qeshm and Hengam islands in the Strait of Hormuz before dawn on Sunday. The governor of Qeshm confirmed that one crew member was killed and others were wounded.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported that a vessel had been hit, while Iranian state media characterized the incident as an attack by a terrorist enemy.

Wider Regional Instability

These developments occur ahead of a scheduled meeting in Muscat, Oman, intended to discuss a managed corridor through the Strait of Hormuz. Following the seizure of Mokha, Dhubab, and islands in the Bab al-Mandeb by Houthi forces, the region faces mounting instability.

According to reports, approximately 1,400 Yemenis have fled toward Djibouti due to the ongoing conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran will not surrender, while regional nations continue to navigate diplomatic efforts amidst increased security measures and economic volatility, with oil prices hovering near $100 per barrel.