Saudi Arabia is facing a shortage of air defense missiles needed to counter ongoing attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, according to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ). The kingdom is reportedly redistributing its existing air defense systems between royal palaces and energy facilities while seeking additional military equipment and assistance from foreign partners. The WSJ reported that Saudi authorities have approached Pakistan, a military ally, for assistance and are examining options to purchase air defense equipment from other countries.
Riyadh is also considering involving foreign military personnel to support its allies in Yemen as it evaluates its response to continued Houthi attacks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is seeking additional military support from the United States, with discussions reportedly including a commitment to invest nearly $1 trillion in the American economy.
However, according to the WSJ, Washington has so far declined Saudi requests for direct military assistance in countering Houthi attacks. U.S. involvement has remained limited to the deployment of military advisors. Bloomberg previously reported that the United States was considering whether to expand military assistance to Saudi Arabia or maintain support at its existing level.
According to the report, increasing military assistance could result in greater U.S. involvement in the conflict. Alongside efforts to strengthen its air defense capabilities, Saudi Arabia is increasingly exploring diplomatic approaches to the conflict with the Houthis.
Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, an expert on the Persian Gulf, warned that a Saudi military response could draw the kingdom into a deeper confrontation with the group. He noted that the Houthis have demonstrated an ability to cause significant damage despite their relatively limited military capabilities. Against this background, Saudi Arabia is seeking a diplomatic resolution while continuing dialogue with Iran.
The reports come after an attack on Riyadh's main airport on Saturday, October 10, which resulted in 12 deaths and 309 injuries. Two Uzbek citizens were among those injured in the attack. On October 11, the airport was targeted again by an unidentified projectile.