Saudi Arabia Seeks Israel’s Technical Help Amid Houthi Threat

Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking technical and intelligence assistance from Israel amid escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis have advanced along parts of Yemen’s Red Sea coast and gained control around the strategic Bab el-Mandeb area, raising concerns over shipping and Saudi oil exports. According to Israeli media reports, Saudi security officials held indirect discussions with Israeli counterparts, with the US Central Command reportedly facilitating the contact.

The developments have also put the newly signed Mecca Joint Defence Agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye under scrutiny. While Pakistan has said the pact could become operational if Houthi attacks spill into Saudi Arabia, its Foreign Office has clarified that no immediate military response has been discussed and that mechanisms for implementing the agreement still need to be established. Against this backdrop, Riyadh is reportedly exploring additional regional and international support to counter the growing Houthi threat.