Saudi Arabia reports incoming fire as Egypt weighs sending help

Saudi Arabia has intercepted a fresh wave of incoming drones, as Egypt considers sending aid in defense against repeated attacks from Yemen's Houthis. Riyadh heads a military coalition backing Yemen's internationally recognized government against the Iran-backed group. A Houthi spokesman claimed dozens of Saudi strikes in the past day killed and wounded numerous people.

Since the conflict escalated in July, Saudi Arabia has faced sustained Houthi missile and drone attacks on its oil installations, tankers, and transit hubs, including an attack on Riyadh's airport that killed 13. The Saudi coalition intercepted and destroyed four drones in recent hours in Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the South.

Egypt, a coalition member, pledged to take measures to protect Saudi Arabia if requested, stating it's inconceivable to stand by while the kingdom is harmed. Egypt's President Sisi emphasized the defense nature of the assistance, not fighting. Egypt's parliament held an emergency session at Sisi's request due to the threat. The repeated Houthi strikes have prompted foreign embassies to caution citizens about using Saudi airports or visiting the country.

Saudi Arabia blames Iran for encouraging the Houthies' escalation, a claim Tehran denies. Iran's Foreign Minister offered to mediate, but Yemen's Foreign Minister rejected Iran's offer, calling Tehran a party to the war against Yemenis. The Houthis are seen as part of Iran's Axis of Resistance against Israel and the U.S., though they claim to act independently.

Saudi Arabia has been carrying out daily airstrikes on the Houthis in Yemen, with the Houthi military spokesman claiming 53 strikes in the capital Sanaa and six other provinces in the past 24 hours.