Syria weighs military aid for Saudi Arabia amid Yemen war, sources say
KSA•Syria is considering military assistance to Saudi Arabia as the kingdom fights Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen, with options including defensive support or deploying forces. A U.S. official said Saudi Arabia requested Syrian forces; no decision was reported.
1. Aid options under consideration
Syria is carefully considering military assistance to Saudi Arabia amid an escalating war against the Houthis in Yemen, a U.S. official and a Syrian military official briefed on the matter said. Options include defensive aid to protect the kingdom from attacks or deploying forces to help Saudi-backed Yemeni troops fight the Houthis. A Syrian diplomat said any military cooperation would take place through official channels and under bilateral agreements.
2. Sharaa discussed support
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa discussed potential military assistance with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a visit to Riyadh, the U.S. official said. Saudi Arabia has sought defensive and offensive support from countries in the United States, Europe and the Middle East after weeks of Houthi missile and drone attacks. Saudi-backed Yemeni forces, supported by Saudi air power, have made limited advances since the campaign began on Monday.
3. Deployment carries risks
Syria's government is focused on recovery from its 14-year civil war and has adopted a policy of avoiding engagement in conflicts, the article said. The U.S. official said a fight with the Houthis could carry divisive religious undertones and that Iran and its allies might view Syrian involvement as hostile. Syria's show of support could lead to increased Saudi financial assistance, the official said.
