Saudi Arabia has more security partners than ever. So why isn’t it safer?
Saudi Arabia is facing increased security threats from Houthi missiles despite diversifying its international defense partnerships. The article argues that the kingdom must transition from diplomatic agreements to active military deterrence.
Why it matters
Examines the limitations of soft power and diplomatic alliances in the face of active regional conflict in the Middle East.
The Kingdom Tower at sunset in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on 02 March, 2024. (Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Reuters Connect) Bottom lines up front Saudi Arabia has spent a decade diversifying its security partnerships, including entering into the highly publicized Mecca Agreement with Pakistan and Turkey in August. But as Houthi missiles strike Riyadh, the kingdom is discovering the limits of its expanding network of allies. Now Riyadh must turn its partnerships into military muscle, imposing enough costs on the Houthis to restore deterrence and open a path to diplomacy. RIYADH—Even as Houthi missiles rain down on Saudi Arabia, there is an eerie calm in Riyadh. King Fahd Road, the capital’s main artery, is jammed with traffic. Chic women sip Japanese matcha in French cafes, designer American labels peeking out from under their abayas. At a glance, Riyadh feels like business as usual: a buzzing metropolitan coming into its own.
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