Saudi Arabia Seeks Air-Defence Support From France, Britain, Pakistan and Egypt as Interceptor Stocks Dwindle

In response to an ongoing standoff with Houthi rebels in Yemen, Saudi Arabia has reached out to France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt for assistance with air-defense capabilities, as reported by two regional officials on Wednesday. This request is intended to safeguard against missile and drone attacks from Houthis and other groups supported by Iran. The initiative follows a significant reduction in interceptor supplies from the United States, the kingdom's main ally and arms provider, during the six-month conflict with Iran, according to one official. Both officials chose to remain anonymous due to restrictions on speaking to the media. Saudi officials have yet to reply to a request for comments.