Saudi Arabia expects coordinated attacks by Houthis, Iraqi militias, official says

Saudi Arabia is bracing for imminent, coordinated attacks from both Iraqi militias and Yemen's Houthis, operating under the direction of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to a senior Saudi official. The official, who spoke anonymously, stated that intelligence shared by Saudi Arabia, the United States, and other regional partners indicates that civilian and economic targets, such as energy infrastructure, ports, and airports, may be deliberately targeted.

The official highlighted that observed movements of drones and missiles suggest synchronized operations from both northern and southern directions. These reported threats are particularly concerning as Saudi Arabia actively pursues de-escalation and a negotiated settlement, with ongoing contacts and mediation efforts involving Iran appearing to progress positively. The planned attacks could be intended to undermine these diplomatic initiatives.

Saudi Arabia maintains a high level of cooperation with the U.S., including operational collaboration with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), and is prepared to take necessary measures against any aggression. This warning follows recent Saudi-U.S. strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq, which were blamed for drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities. Tensions with the Houthis have also escalated recently, with the group imposing a naval blockade on the kingdom in the Red Sea and claiming attacks on Saudi shipping and military targets, prompting Saudi airstrikes on military sites in Yemen.

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Saudi Arabia had also observed drones and missiles being moved, suggesting coordinated operations from both directions.