Internet, Sept. 16: Saudi Arabia is facing growing security pressure from Houthi attacks as fighting escalates in Yemen.
Recent reports have indicated that Riyadh has sought Israeli intelligence assistance through US Central Command amid the Houthi offensive.
The developments have also raised questions about Saudi Arabia’s newly signed defence agreement with Pakistan and Turkey.
Pakistan has said it remains committed to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. However, Islamabad has clarified that no military response against Houthi targets is currently being considered.
The agreement treats an armed attack against one member as an attack against all. However, Pakistan has not agreed to deploy forces against the Houthis in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia Faces Houthi Threat Near Mecca
The security situation intensified on Tuesday after Saudi authorities issued brief emergency alerts in Mecca, Jeddah and Taif.
The alerts warned of a potential danger and urged residents to seek shelter. Authorities later confirmed that the threat had passed.
Saudi air defences also intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it entered the city’s restricted airspace.
The Saudi led coalition described the incident as the Houthis’ second reported attempt to target Mecca. The Houthis have denied targeting the holy city.
The alerts came after repeated Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory and infrastructure.
The escalation has also affected regional energy and shipping routes, with the Houthis advancing towards areas near the strategically important Bab al Mandeb Strait.
Reports about Saudi Arabia seeking Israeli assistance have so far focused on intelligence cooperation rather than a confirmed Israeli military deployment.
Meanwhile, Pakistan and Turkey have condemned the attacks and supported Saudi Arabia’s security, while Islamabad has said the new defence pact has not yet been operationalised for military action in Yemen.
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