The UK is close to agreeing to help the Saudi military counter the Houthis.
- The UK is close to agreeing to provide defensive military support to Saudi Arabia as the kingdom faces repeated attacks from the Iran-backed Houthis. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly leaning toward offering assistance such as aerial refuelling and encouraging other countries to provide similar support.
- The aim would be to help Saudi Arabia counter Houthi attacks, stabilise the region and reduce risks to shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb strait. If approved, it would be one of Burnham’s first major military decisions since becoming prime minister in July.