The kingdom is running low on Patriot and other interceptor missiles, forcing the redeployment of defense batteries to protect energy infrastructure and royal palaces, according to The Wall Street Journal. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has begun moving between palaces equipped with bunkers and guarded by select security personnel. While Riyadh has sought assistance from Pakistan and other allies, Washington has resisted requests for direct military help to roll back Houthi advances, sending military advisers instead. The ongoing conflict has strained the economy, with the Finance Ministry forecasting a 3.6% contraction this year and stalling projects like Neom.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Saudi Arabia Investigates Air Defense Failures After Houthi Attack Kills 13
War8 days ago
An initial probe into the strike on King Khalid International Airport revealed that Iran-backed Houthis saturated the airspace with multiple drones to bypass security before firing cruise and ballistic missiles, reported the Associated Press. The attack killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 300, prompting an investigation into why Saudi sensors failed to provide earlier warnings as the drones and missiles traveled more than 1,000 kilometers to reach Riyadh. The Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting two more ballistic missiles on Monday, while Houthi forces warned international airlines against using Saudi airports outside Mecca and Medina.
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