Saudi Arabia–Houthi conflict: live updates
Cross-border hostilities between Yemeni Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia have prompted regional defense agreements and international military support to safeguard Saudi security.
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Updates
Egypt Pledges to Defend Saudi Borders but Rejects Yemen Operations
Key point: President Sisi affirmed Egypt's commitment to defending Saudi territory while explicitly ruling out Egyptian military participation in attacks on Yemen.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi announced that Egypt will provide direct military protection to defend Saudi Arabian territory. He clarified, however, that this military support does not include participating in attacks on Yemen.
The remarks were made during a session on national security at the Egypt Forum 2026. Sisi emphasized that while Egypt is committed to defending its Gulf ally against direct threats, it will maintain a strictly defensive posture regarding the ongoing Yemeni conflict.
This defensive commitment arrives as Saudi Arabia faces increasing security challenges from Houthi attacks. The pledge adds to a broader regional realignment as international allies reinforce their defense pacts and diplomatic presence in Riyadh.
US Orders Non-Emergency Embassy Staff to Leave Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Attacks
Key point: The United States has directed non-essential diplomatic personnel and their families to depart Saudi Arabia as regional hostilities with Houthi forces escalate.
The United States has ordered the departure of non-emergency embassy staff and their families from Saudi Arabia. The State Department issued the evacuation directive as a precautionary measure amid an intensifying campaign of attacks by Houthi forces.
While initial reports suggested the evacuation orders might apply to multiple Gulf states, the State Department clarified that the directive is currently limited to personnel stationed in Saudi Arabia. The move comes as the US prepares for a potential broader resumption of hostilities in the region.
The diplomatic drawdown follows a surge in Houthi drone and missile strikes targeting Saudi infrastructure. On Wednesday, an attack on King Fahd Airport left one person dead and eight injured, highlighting the growing security risks in the kingdom.
Macron Makes Surprise Visit to Riyadh to Bolster Security Alliances
Key point: French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Saudi Arabia for an unannounced visit to demonstrate solidarity and strengthen security alliances amid ongoing regional tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Riyadh for an unannounced visit to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The trip is intended to demonstrate solidarity with Saudi Arabia and bolster regional security alliances.
The diplomatic mission focuses on strengthening bilateral ties, securing energy supplies, and addressing regional stability. The visit comes as Saudi Arabia faces ongoing security challenges, including recent attacks by Houthi rebels.
Saudi Arabia Postpones 'Davos in the Desert' Summit Amid Houthi Attacks
Key point: Saudi Arabia has delayed its flagship Future Investment Initiative conference until 2027 due to security concerns from recent Houthi attacks.
Saudi Arabia has postponed its flagship Future Investment Initiative conference, widely known as "Davos in the Desert," which was scheduled to take place next week. The kingdom delayed the major economic summit until 2027 following a series of Houthi attacks.
The delay underscores the expanding economic fallout from regional conflicts, disrupting Riyadh's efforts to attract global investors. The annual summit serves as a cornerstone for the country's strategy to diversify its economy away from oil reliance.