Saudi Crown Prince Seeks Egypt's Backing as Houthi Attacks Rattle Oil Markets

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi to seek backing in the kingdom's fight against Houthi rebels, who have been attacking Saudi shipping and infrastructure.

The attacks have driven up global oil prices as they target critical Red Sea oil routes, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The strait connects the Red Sea to the open ocean and is a major route for Saudi oil exports to Asia.

Egypt's support is crucial for Saudi Arabia, which has been largely isolated in its confrontation with the Houthi rebels, backed by Iran. While Egypt may not provide military assistance, it can offer political backing among Arab nations.