Houthis Escalate Attacks on Saudi Arabia as Allies Rally Support

Saudi Arabia's allies are rallying to support the country as Houthi rebel attacks intensify. France has confirmed it will send troops to protect the key oil terminal at Yanbu, which hosts major storage and refining facilities.

The terminal is connected by the East-West Pipeline, capable of carrying up to seven million barrels a day. The pipeline's operation has been disrupted by Houthi strikes, forcing Saudi Arabia to switch some exports back to the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi officials are meeting with peers from Pakistan and Turkiye to discuss options under their mutual defence pact. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Paris is sending 'soldiers, radars, and defense systems' to Yanbu, not to get involved in any conflict, but to protect the site.