Nour News, an Iranian-aligned outlet, said Yemeni armed forces are expanding attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia, from King Fahd airport to the Eastern Province. It gave no account of damage.

The claim joins a long list. Houthi claims on Dammam airport on October 11 and 22 were followed by a UK advisory against travel to Dammam, and Riyadh Airport extended its flight suspension after confirmed damage from the October 11 strikes. Oil flows have nonetheless held. Shipping trackers show Saudi Arabia exported about 6.5 million barrels a day in October, against 6.6 million in September. The Gulf crude premium fell from almost $34 a barrel in September to about $6, as of October 28. Without new verified damage, this report changes little for crude.

The more consequential move is diplomatic. Saudi Arabia and Syria signed a defense cooperation agreement on Wednesday, Middle East Eye reported, citing the Saudi news agency SPA. It was signed during a visit to Riyadh by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

That looks like a kingdom adding security partners while the Houthi question stays open. The Wall Street Journal reported, citing people familiar with the talks, that the Houthis demanded $51bn in compensation and formal recognition as Yemen's rulers, and that Riyadh had approached them to explore a deal. There is no sign Saudi Arabia has accepted those terms or made a counteroffer.

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