Saudi Arabia Prepares for Large-Scale Iranian-Backed Attacks on Ports and Airports

Saudi Arabia is preparing for a wave of coordinated attacks on its ports and airports, according to a senior Saudi official who spoke to CNN. The planned assaults are reportedly orchestrated by Iraqi militias in collaboration with Iran-backed Houthi rebels, under the direction of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The intelligence is based on multiple reports indicating an imminent threat to Saudi infrastructure.

The Saudi official expressed serious concern about these developments, especially as Riyadh is currently engaged in efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and negotiations appear to be progressing positively. The official emphasized that Saudi Arabia will take all necessary measures to counter any aggression.

These reports come ahead of a joint defense conference scheduled in Mecca involving Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, where a mutual defense agreement is expected to be announced. The warnings follow recent Houthi claims of attacking a Saudi oil tanker in the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait and ongoing missile and drone attacks on Saudi targets by Houthi forces and pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed concerns about Pentagon ammunition shortages, asserting that the U.S. has "massive amounts" of munitions despite tighter supplies due to prolonged conflict with Iran. Trump denied reports of frustration with Defense Secretary Mark Esper over the issue.

Separately, Iran and Oman are close to finalizing a framework for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, though Iran insists that the agreement will not automatically reopen the passage without guarantees from the U.S. Tehran denies any direct negotiations with Washington, stating talks with Oman are bilateral only.