Saudi Arabia Warns of Imminent Two-Pronged Attack by Iran-Backed Forces

Saudi Arabia has issued a rare public warning that it expects imminent coordinated attacks from Iran-backed forces on two fronts: Iraqi militias from the north and Yemen's Houthis from the south, according to a senior Saudi official.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity late Thursday, said intelligence shared by Saudi Arabia, the United States, and other regional countries indicated that civilian and economic sites—including energy infrastructure, ports, and airports—could be targeted. The official added that Saudi Arabia had observed the movement of drones and missiles, suggesting coordinated operations from both directions, and was prepared to take all necessary measures to respond to any aggression.

The warning underscores how the Gulf kingdom has become increasingly drawn into the wider regional conflict. Over the past weeks, Saudi Arabia has faced attacks from both the Houthis and Iraqi militias. In late July, it carried out strikes with U.S. Central Command against Iran-backed groups in Iraq, blaming them for drone attacks on its oil facilities. Iraqi militias have since vowed to retaliate.

Amid the escalating threats, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey are set to sign a joint defence agreement in Mecca on Friday, according to sources familiar with the matter, cementing an alliance between three major Sunni Muslim powers.

The Saudi official described the reported threats as "particularly alarming" because Riyadh continues to pursue de-escalation and a negotiated settlement. Contacts with all parties, including Iran, and mediation efforts appeared to be moving "in the right direction," the official said, suggesting the planned attacks could be intended to disrupt those diplomatic efforts. Regional officials have indicated that Gulf states and Iran were nearing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under a temporary arrangement, which could pave the way for broader talks to end the war.

On Thursday, a Houthi attack on southern Saudi Arabia wounded 11 civilians, according to a military official. Major General Turki al-Maliki, spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, said the attack in Najran Province injured seven Saudis, one Yemeni, two Egyptians, and one Pakistani national. The Houthis have not commented on the coalition's statement.

The Houthis claimed responsibility on Tuesday for an attack on Najran airport, part of a broader escalation that has included strikes on Saudi military, infrastructure, and shipping targets. They also killed at least 17 Yemeni government troops on Thursday, according to the Yemeni government, after attacking Saudi-backed military deployments in Marib and Hadramout provinces.

Riyadh's decade-long conflict with the Houthis has become increasingly entangled with the wider war, as Houthi actions—such as a Red Sea blockade that has disrupted Saudi oil exports—have raised the stakes of the regional confrontation.