Intercept missile stockpile dwindling: Saudi Arabia turned to its allies for assistance

Saudi Arabia has turned to its allies for assistance with air defense amid the dwindling of its interceptor missile stockpile, according to an AP report. Riyadh has asked France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt to deploy air defense measures. A regional source described Saudi Arabia's situation as 'very difficult' due to the need to protect bases, facilities, and oil infrastructure simultaneously.

Saudi Arabia has turned to its allies for assistance with air defense amid the dwindling of its interceptor missile stockpile, according to an AP report citing two regional sources. According to the report, Riyadh has asked France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt to deploy air defense measures to help it deal with missiles and drones launched by the Houthis and other Iran-backed groups. One source explained that the request was made partly because the interceptor missile stockpile of the United States, its main ally and primary arms supplier, has also dwindled during the six months of war with Iran. Another source described Saudi Arabia's situation as 'very difficult,' as it is required to simultaneously protect its military bases, vital government facilities, and oil infrastructure spread across the kingdom. Meanwhile, the Houthis are attacking infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and vessels in the Red Sea, and have taken over several islands in the Bab el-Mandeb strait area. Iran continues to attack vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, and oil prices remain above $100 per barrel. Another source said Riyadh is trying to rally its allies for a joint international response against the Houthis, but added: 'The decision now is to give diplomacy a chance.' The report was published after Saudi Arabia claimed to have intercepted a Houthi drone intended to strike Mecca, declaring the holy city a 'red line.'