• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. Saudi Arabia seeks Israel's intelligence support against Houthi rebels.
  2. UK also approached to protect Saudi oil infrastructure from attacks.
  3. Houthi attacks intensify, threatening Red Sea shipping and Bab el-Mandeb.

Saudi Arabia is facing growing security concerns after Iran-backed Houthi rebels reportedly expanded their control along Yemen’s Red Sea coast while also increasing their presence around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. As Houthi attacks continue to threaten Saudi cities and key infrastructure, a report suggests that Riyadh is looking for support from several countries, including Israel and the United Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia Turns To Israel For Support

According to the Jerusalem Post, Saudi Arabia and Israel recently held talks through the US Central Command (CENTCOM) to discuss ways to help Riyadh deal with the Houthi threat. The discussions reportedly focused on intelligence sharing. Saudi Arabia sought information about Houthi military positions and deployments, as well as possible plans for future operations.

Riyadh Seeks Help From Other Countries

Saudi Arabia has also reportedly approached other regional and Western partners. The development comes after Pakistan, despite being part of the Mecca Defence Agreement, reportedly declined to step into the crisis. Israel Hayom reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud has indirectly sought assistance from other Gulf countries and Egypt in dealing with the Houthis.

Similarly, Bloomberg reported that Riyadh had also asked Britain for help in pushing the Houthis away from the Strait and protecting Saudi oil infrastructure from attacks. The situation has become concerning for Gulf countries due to the possibility that the US could reach an understanding with Iran and the Houthis. Officials fear such a development may leave other Gulf states vulnerable to attacks in future.

ALSO READ: Muslim Holy Sites Under Threat? Saudi Arabia Issues Alerts For Mecca, Jeddah And Taif Amid Conflict With Houthis

Houthi Attacks Intensify

Reports suggest that Houthis have stepped up their attacks on Saudi Arabia. Last week, one drone strike targeted oil pipelines and pumping facilities, leading to a partial reduction in operations. Moreover, Houthi leaders have also announced a blockade targeting Saudi shipping around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a waterway that is strategically important for Riyadh.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s decision to seek intelligence and security assistance from Israel highlights the seriousness of the Houthi threat. It is significant as Riyadh has also not recognised Israel and does not have formal diplomatic relations with it.

As of now, it seems that Saudi Arabia is trying to widen its support base as Houthi attacks on oil facilities, shipping routes, and other infrastructure intensify.

ALSO READ: Two Calls, Heavy Praise For Munir, Zero Defence Pledge: Pakistan PM Sharif Rings Saudi Prince After Mecca Pact U-Turn

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