The United Kingdom has agreed to provide limited military support to Saudi Arabia amid intensified attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham approved the deployment of an RAF Voyager aircraft for defensive air-to-air refuelling. The mission is expected to begin within days and remain time-limited.
UK Support to Remain Defensive
Burnham said Saudi Arabia had requested military assistance as Houthi attacks increased.
However, the British mission will support Saudi aircraft defending against missiles and drones. It will not support Saudi offensive strikes against Houthi targets.
Burnham said the decision would help protect British and regional interests. He also stressed the importance of keeping key energy routes open.
Britain has already deployed its Sky Sabre air defence system in Saudi Arabia. The system was sent earlier this year to help protect the kingdom from missile threats.
Houthi Attacks Raise Regional Concerns
The latest British move follows an escalation in Yemen.
The Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, including an attack targeting Riyadh. The group has also advanced along parts of Yemen’s Red Sea coast.
Their recent gains have increased concerns about shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The waterway is an important route for global trade and energy shipments.
Saudi Arabia has backed Yemen’s internationally recognised government in the conflict for years.
France Offers Defensive Energy Support
France has also indicated that it is prepared to help protect Saudi energy infrastructure.
A French diplomatic source said Paris could contribute to securing facilities in Yanbu and along the East-West Pipeline. The source stressed that the assistance would remain strictly defensive.
The developments come as attacks on Saudi energy facilities and shipping routes increase regional concerns.
Coalition Strikes Reportedly Kill Six
Meanwhile, Houthi-affiliated media reported that Saudi-led coalition strikes on Yemen’s Mokha killed six people and injured eight others.
The reported casualties included two children and a woman. The claims could not be independently verified.
Yemen’s governing authorities have also sought international support as fighting intensifies.
The latest developments highlight the widening regional impact of the conflict and growing concerns over Saudi security, energy infrastructure and vital shipping routes.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
