LONDON, — Britain will provide limited defensive military support to Saudi Arabia amid renewed attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Saudi Arabia requested military support. Following that request, the UK agreed to provide defensive air-to-air refuelling for Saudi aircraft.
RAF Aircraft to Support Saudi Jets
The operation is expected to involve one Royal Air Force Voyager aircraft.
The aircraft will operate from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. It will provide air-to-air refuelling for Saudi fighter jets involved in defensive operations against Houthi drones and missiles.
Meanwhile, British officials said the mission will be time-limited. It is expected to last several weeks initially.
UK Responds to Houthi Attacks
The decision follows a series of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Britain has accused the Houthis of targeting Saudi civilian and energy infrastructure. The UK government has also warned that the attacks threaten regional stability and freedom of navigation.
In addition, Britain has highlighted the importance of keeping trade routes through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb open.
Focus on Regional Security
Burnham said the UK wants to support regional stability and protect vital routes.
The British government has also stressed the importance of maintaining access to key shipping routes. These routes are important for international trade and energy supplies.
However, London has described the new military support as defensive and time-limited.
The UK has previously worked with Saudi Arabia on regional defence and security. The latest decision adds limited British air support as Saudi Arabia faces renewed Houthi missile and drone attacks.
