Saudi expects imminent two-pronged attack from Iran's allies, official says

With threats escalating, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey will sign a joint defence agreement in Mecca on Friday, sources with knowledge of the matter said, cementing an alliance between three major Sunni Muslim powers.

Reuters reported last week that Saudi Arabia assessed the Houthis and Iraqi militias had attacked the kingdom together, under IRGC supervision, from Iraq.

The Saudi official said the reported threats were "particularly alarming" as Riyadh continued to pursue de-escalation and a negotiated settlement, adding that contacts with all parties, including Iran, and mediation efforts appeared to be moving "in the right direction."

The official said the planned attacks could be intended to disrupt those diplomatic efforts. Regional officials have indicated Gulf states and Iran were closing in on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under a temporary arrangement aimed at allowing for broader talks to bring the Iran war to a close.