The key facts

  • Saudi Arabia has requested air defense assistance from Pakistan and is seeking air defense systems worldwide — WSJ citing sources
  • The kingdom faces a shortage of interceptor missiles and is redistributing air defense batteries between royal palaces and energy infrastructure
  • The United States is cautiously approaching requests for military aid; security measures for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have been strengthened

Appeal to Pakistan and Search for Air Defense Systems

Saudi Arabia has requested assistance from Pakistan in the field of air defense amid escalating attacks by Yemeni Houthis. The Wall Street Journal reported this citing sources. According to the publication, the kingdom is facing a shortage of interceptor missiles needed to repel subsequent attacks and was therefore forced to redistribute its existing air defense batteries between royal palaces and energy infrastructure. In addition to turning to its military ally — Pakistan — Riyadh is seeking air defense systems worldwide. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is considering the possibility of hiring foreign fighters to support its allies in Yemen.

US Position and Security of the Crown Prince

As WSJ notes, despite Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's efforts to strengthen ties with the United States and attract major investments to the country, Washington is currently approaching requests for military aid in the fight against Houthi attacks with caution. The United States has sent military advisors to Saudi Arabia. The threat of attacks has also intensified personal security measures for the Crown Prince: according to sources cited by the publication, the 41-year-old Mohammed bin Salman moves between heavily guarded palaces equipped with bunkers and is under the protection of a specially selected security team.

Attack on Riyadh Airport

It is worth recalling that on October 10, it was reported that 12 people died and 309 were injured in an attack on Riyadh's main airport. Among the victims were two Uzbek citizens who sustained minor injuries.