Saudi Arabia Taps Allies Amid Dwindling Missile Defences

Saudi Arabia is seeking air-defence support from four key allies - France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt - as its interceptor stocks dwindle under relentless Houthi attacks. The kingdom's pleas come amidst dwindling US supplies that limit Washington's ability to replenish Saudi defences.

The urgency is growing as Saudi Arabia must defend its vast territory against multiple threats, including military bases, government facilities, and oil infrastructure across the region. One regional official described the kingdom as being in a 'very difficult position'.

Pressure on US defence supplies has been building before the latest Saudi request. In March, Business Insider Africa reported that US reserves of critical rare-earth materials could last only about two months under sustained wartime demand, raising concerns over supplies needed for advanced weapons. This strain has now been compounded by six months of war with Iran.

The wider supply strain has also affected European inventories as governments balance their own defence needs with continued support for Ukraine, leaving fewer missiles available to replenish Saudi air defences. Washington has stopped short of directly joining Saudi Arabia's renewed fight with the Houthis despite Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman seeking US military assistance.