Saudi Arabia, Israel eye security deal amid Houthi threats — SkimNews
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- Saudi Arabia is discussing intelligence cooperation with Israel through U.S. Central Command to counter Houthi missile and drone attacks, according to regional reports.
- Benjamin Netanyahu publicly condemned a Houthi attack on Riyadh's airport on October 11 and sought Saudi approval for Israel to join the campaign, signaling a shift in public diplomacy.
- Trump offered Saudi Arabia a 30-year civilian nuclear deal contingent on recognizing Israel and joining the Abraham Accords, creating a diplomatic opening for normalization.
- Pakistan and Turkey, bound by the Mecca Pact to defend Saudi Arabia, have provided only symbolic military support, with Turkey ruling out offensive operations and Pakistan's actions remaining limited in scope.
- Israeli sources claim intelligence sharing with Saudi Arabia is already underway, while analysts describe the cooperation as an 'open secret' in the region despite no formal ties.
- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sought U.S. military assistance against the Houthis in September, but Washington declined direct action, offering only intelligence and targeting support.
Why it matters: Saudi Arabia’s pivot toward Israel reflects eroding confidence in traditional security partners and U.S. commitments, making Israeli defense expertise a strategic asset. Without a credible path to Palestinian statehood, however, any diplomatic breakthrough remains stalled, limiting immediate gains for both nations.
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