Syrian official denies Saudi Arabia asked Damascus to deploy troops in war with Houthis

A Syrian official has firmly denied allegations that Riyadh requested Damascus to deploy troops in the conflict against the Houthis in Yemen. Ahmad Zaidan, media adviser to President Ahmad Al Shara, dismissed recent reports of a plan to send Syrian forces to Saudi Arabia or Yemen as "lies." President Al Shara met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The denial was echoed by Syria's Foreign Media Department, which stated Syria's stance is "to stand firmly with Saudi Arabia against threats to its security and stability." Syria's priority is rebuilding the country and strengthening its institutions, not opening new fronts. Reuters reported that Syria is considering providing military assistance to Saudi Arabia, with options including defensive aid or deploying forces in an offensive capacity.

The Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia have brought the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement into focus, raising questions about collective security alliances. Syria condemned the Houthis' attacks on Saudi Arabian facilities and infrastructure, warning that such actions violate international law and threaten regional stability.