Penny Wong warns Houthi strikes on Saudi airports could lift fuel prices

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the recent Houthi attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport as “very concerning,” warning they could add upward pressure on oil prices and raise pump prices for Australians. Saudi officials reported at least three deaths and 36 injuries from the twin strikes, which come amid intensified fighting in Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Wong said the government remains committed to guaranteeing supplies of petrol, diesel, fertilizer and other cost-of-living relief, while she declined to comment on possible further fuel excise cuts.

She highlighted the wider ramifications of the conflict on the Strait of Hormuz, noting that private-sector confidence is key and that the G7’s decision to release diesel reserves should bolster market confidence. Wong also defended the recent downgrade of travel warnings for the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, urging Australians to exercise caution but recognizing the region’s importance for travel and trade. She concluded by expressing support for negotiations between the United States and Iran and a swift reopening of the strait.