Saudi Arabia intercepted four drones across Riyadh, the Eastern Province and southern regions on Saturday. The incident came as Egypt considered measures to help protect the kingdom from further Houthi attacks. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said Cairo was ready to take necessary steps if Saudi Arabia requested assistance. However, he stressed that Egypt would focus on defence rather than joining another regional war.
The Saudi-led military coalition confirmed that its forces destroyed the four drones within a few hours. Meanwhile, Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree claimed Saudi Arabia had carried out 53 airstrikes across Sanaa and six other provinces in 24 hours. He said the attacks had caused numerous casualties. A Houthi-affiliated news agency reported 12 deaths and more than 30 injuries in Dhamar and Taiz, while accusing Saudi forces of using banned cluster bombs.
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The latest violence has heightened security concerns across Saudi Arabia. Last week’s attack on Riyadh’s airport reportedly killed 13 people. Since the conflict intensified again in July, Houthi forces have repeatedly targeted Saudi oil facilities, tankers and transport hubs. As a result, several foreign embassies have warned their citizens against travelling to the kingdom or using its airports. Saudi Arabia’s Education Ministry also extended remote learning for students in Riyadh and nearby Diriyah.
Sisi said Egypt would not stand aside if Saudi Arabia’s security and stability came under threat. He emphasised that Cairo’s position focused on protecting the kingdom, not attacking another country. Furthermore, Egypt’s parliament was scheduled to hold an emergency session on Sunday at the president’s request. Although Egypt belongs to the coalition opposing the Houthis, its role has mainly focused on Red Sea maritime security.
Read more : Saudi forces foil 20 Houthi attacks on Riyadh airport –
Meanwhile, Iran renewed its call for a political solution to the escalating conflict. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a comprehensive political process offered the only sustainable path towards resolving the crisis. He also repeated Tehran’s offer to mediate between the sides. However, Yemeni Foreign Minister Afrah al-Zouba rejected the proposal, arguing that Iran was a party to the war rather than a neutral mediator. Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh had earlier said Riyadh had not responded to Tehran’s offer.
Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of encouraging the Houthis’ recent escalation, but Tehran denies the allegation. The Houthis maintain ties with Iran’s regional alliance against Israel and the United States, although both insist the group operates independently. Meanwhile, Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces are attempting to reverse Houthi gains following a September offensive. The continuing attacks and diplomatic disagreements have intensified concerns over regional security and increased pressure for a political settlement.