Saudi defence pact countries hold talks in Iran as Houthis launch more attacks
USO•Officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan met Iranian officials in Tehran to seek de-escalation as the Houthis said they attacked Saudi energy and transport targets. Egypt’s parliament authorised military support for Saudi Arabia.
1. Talks seek de-escalation
Top officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan met Iranian officials in Tehran on Monday, the first high-level contact between Iran and the three countries since the war began. Saudi Arabia said the visit aimed to open negotiating channels to “prevent the return of military escalation.” The agenda included US-Iran talks, Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, the Strait of Hormuz and a US blockade of Iranian ports.
2. Houthi attacks reported
The Houthis said they attacked pumping stations on Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline and Riyadh airport. Saudi Arabia did not immediately confirm the attacks. The conflict has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and pushed up global oil and gas prices.
3. Egypt approves support
Egypt’s parliament authorised the military to help defend Saudi Arabia. The Saudi, Turkish and Pakistani governments signed the Mecca mutual defence pact in August; Pakistan approved it last week, while Turkey’s parliament began considering ratification last week.
