Riyadh says intelligence points to potential strikes on energy facilities, ports and airports
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia expects coordinated attacks by Iraqi militias from the north and Yemen’s Houthis from the south, potentially under the supervision of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a senior Saudi official said.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said Saudi, US and regional intelligence indicated that civilian and economic infrastructure could face attacks, including energy installations, ports and airports.
Moreover, Saudi authorities have observed movements of drones and missiles that suggest preparations for coordinated operations from both directions. The official said Riyadh remained prepared to take all necessary measures against any aggression.
Regional tensions intensify
The warning comes after weeks of escalating regional confrontation. Saudi Arabia has faced attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthis and Iraqi militias, while Riyadh and US Central Command recently carried out strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq following drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities.
Iraqi militias subsequently threatened retaliation.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye are expected to sign a joint defence agreement on Friday, strengthening security cooperation among the three countries amid growing regional instability.
The warning also followed a Houthi attack in Saudi Arabia’s southern Najran Province that wounded 11 civilians, including seven Saudis, two Egyptians, one Yemeni and one Pakistani national, according to the Saudi-led coalition.
Diplomatic efforts continue despite threats
Despite mounting security concerns, the Saudi official said Riyadh continues pursuing diplomatic de-escalation and remains in contact with regional parties, including Iran.
Furthermore, mediation efforts surrounding the regional conflict were reportedly moving in the “right direction.”
Regional officials have indicated that Iran and Gulf states are moving closer to a temporary arrangement for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, potentially creating space for wider negotiations.
However, Saudi officials fear fresh attacks could deliberately undermine those diplomatic efforts and deepen the regional confrontation.
