Saudi official warns of Iran-backed attack threat
A senior Saudi official has warned of imminent, coordinated attacks on civilian and economic infrastructure by Iran-backed militias in Iraq and Yemen. Despite these threats, the official stated that Saudi Arabia remains committed to ongoing diplomatic de-escalation efforts.
Why it matters
The potential for renewed conflict in the Middle East threatens regional stability and global energy markets, complicating ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
Saudi Arabia expects imminent coordinated attacks from the north and south by Iraqi militias and Yemen's Houthis under the supervision of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a senior Saudi official said on Thursday.The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said intelligence reports from Saudi Arabia, the United States and other regional countries indicated civilian and economic sites could be targeted, including energy infrastructure, ports and airports.Saudi Arabia had also observed drones and missiles being moved, suggesting coordinated operations from both directions, the official said.The official said the reported threats were particularly alarming as Riyadh continued to pursue de-escalation and a negotiated settlement, adding that contacts with all parties, including Iran, and mediation efforts appeared to be moving "in the right direction."
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