Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi drones as Egypt considers military defence support

Saudi air defence forces intercepted four incoming drones over Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and southern border regions on Saturday, as Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi indicated Cairo is prepared to deploy defensive support to safeguard the kingdom.

The interceptions follow weeks of intensified cross-border drone and missile strikes launched by Yemen's Houthi movement. The attacks have targeted vital infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, including oil facilities, maritime shipping, and commercial transit hubs. An attack on Riyadh's international airport last week left 13 people dead.

Speaking at an Egyptian Military Academy ceremony, President Sisi said Cairo would not stand by if Saudi Arabia's security was imperilled. He emphasised that any potential deployment would remain strictly defensive and would proceed in consultation with King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

"It is inconceivable that we would allow Saudi Arabia, its security or stability to be harmed," Sisi said, adding that Egypt was not seeking to intervene in regional wars. Cairo's parliament announced an emergency session for Sunday to debate potential defensive measures.

Security measures and diplomatic clashes

The security threat prompted Saudi authorities to extend safety protocols in the capital. The Saudi Education Ministry announced the continuation of distance learning for students in Riyadh and neighbouring Diriyah. Residents in Riyadh also received mobile emergency notifications warning of a hostile aerial threat and advising them to stay clear of windows and doors.

In Yemen, conflict has escalated following a Houthi offensive in September. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said Saudi coalition aircraft carried out 53 airstrikes across Sanaa and six provinces within 24 hours, alleging numerous civilian casualties. Houthi media outlets separately claimed that strikes in Dhamar and Taiz provinces killed 12 people and wounded more than 30.

Diplomatic overtures have hit a standstill. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for a political resolution and renewed Tehran's offer to mediate negotiations. However, Yemeni Foreign Minister Afrah al-Zouba firmly rejected the proposal, stating on social media that Tehran is an active participant in the war against Yemenis rather than a neutral party.