Saudi Arabia Intercepts Houthi Drone Waves; Trump Says Riyadh Welcomes US and Israeli Support
Saudi Arabia's air defenses have intercepted multiple waves of missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels, including repeated attacks over the capital Riyadh. The intercepts come amid heightened regional tensions, with Saudi and UAE officials discussing their response to the security situation. A Saudi helicopter has also crashed near the Yemeni border, though details of the incident remain unclear. Former US President Donald Trump stated that the kingdom welcomes American and Israeli assistance in dealing with the threat. The comments highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, as the US and Israel have historically provided support to Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks. The disruption to travel is affecting preparations for the Future Investment Initiative (FII) investment gathering in Riyadh, with executives reportedly being offered the option to participate remotely. The FII is a key event for global investors, and the security concerns could impact attendance and the overall atmosphere of the conference.