PoliticsPhoto: Aaj TakSaudi Arabia Struggles in Dual Conflict with Iran and Houthis
Saudi Arabia has been facing a dual-front conflict for the past two to three years, dealing with tensions and attacks from Iran and a prolonged struggle against Yemen's Houthi rebels. Despite having the world's eighth-largest defense budget, spending around $83 billion in 2025 (6.5% of GDP), and possessing advanced weapons like F-15 fighter jets and missile defense systems, Saudi Arabia has struggled to effectively counter Houthi attacks. In October 2026, attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport caused casualties and flight disruptions. Experts cite the challenges of asymmetric warfare despite high defense spending.
Aaj Tak··Riyadh



