LONDON – The United Kingdom has agreed to provide limited defensive military support to Saudi Arabia following a request from Riyadh amid renewed attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the Royal Air Force would provide air-to-air refuelling for Saudi aircraft involved in defensive operations against Houthi drones and ballistic missiles. The support will initially be provided for a few weeks and will be kept under review.
Speaking to reporters while travelling to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, Burnham said the decision was taken after consultations with Defence Secretary Wes Streeting and Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband.
He stressed that the British assistance would be defensive and would support Saudi aircraft involved in protecting the kingdom from missile and drone attacks. Britain would not provide refuelling support for Saudi offensive operations against the Houthis.
Burnham said the move was aimed at protecting British and wider regional interests, particularly the security of vital maritime routes and energy supplies.
The latest decision comes amid an escalation in fighting in Yemen and increased Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia. The Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks targeting areas inside the kingdom, including Riyadh, while also threatening shipping and energy infrastructure.
The Houthis have also made territorial gains along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including the strategic port city of Mokha and nearby islands, increasing concerns over shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
Britain and Saudi Arabia have longstanding defence ties. The UK has previously provided military assistance to the kingdom and has worked with international partners on maritime security in the region.
Saudi Arabia has backed Yemen’s internationally recognised government and has been involved in the country’s conflict for years. The renewed fighting has raised concerns about further disruption to regional trade, energy supplies and international shipping.
Riyadh Airport attacked as Houthi Drone Strike sparks Flames near Fuel Tank
