Turkey says it is ready to meet Saudi Arabia's defence needs

Ankara said on Thursday that Turkey stands ready to provide assistance to Riyadh as Houthi missile and drone attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden intensify, a development that puts the newly signed trilateral defence pact between Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to an early test. The Turkish foreign ministry released a statement confirming that the government will coordinate with its Saudi and Emirati counterparts on any required military, logistical or intelligence support, while emphasizing that the cooperation is intended to safeguard regional security and the free flow of maritime trade. The declaration follows a surge in Houthi strikes that have targeted commercial vessels, oil‑export terminals and Saudi naval installations since the start of the year, prompting heightened alerts across the Gulf.

The trilateral agreement, concluded in June 2024, commits the three states to consult and cooperate on defence matters, including joint exercises and mutual assistance in the event of external threats. Saudi defence officials have welcomed Turkey’s offer, noting that coordinated responses could deter further escalation and protect critical infrastructure. Observers say the unfolding situation will be a barometer for the durability of the partnership, as both Tehran and Washington watch the evolving security dynamics in the region. The parties indicated that they will continue to assess the threat landscape and adjust their collaborative measures accordingly.