Houthis Target Mecca in Escalating Conflict with Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has declared Mecca a 'red line' after accusing Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels of attempting to attack the holy city. The kingdom, a key US ally, condemned the attempted drone attack and called for restraint from all parties involved.
The Houthis have been targeting infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including oil pipelines and shipping on the Red Sea. They have also seized several islands on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has led to concerns about the safety of global trade routes.
Saudi Arabia's defense pact with NATO member Turkey and nuclear power Pakistan is being tested by the escalating conflict. However, officials from Turkey and Pakistan told The Associated Press that they have not received a Saudi request for support in response to the Houthis' escalation.
The US has sold billions of dollars in weapons to Saudi Arabia and has committed to providing training and other support to protect the kingdom. However, top US officials have indicated a lack of desire to get involved in the conflict, with Vice President J.D. Vance saying that Washington is 'engaged in direct conversations with the Houthis themselves.'