UK Deploys Typhoon Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Threat

These are RAF Typhoon fighter jets, the same jets the UK is sending to Saudi Arabia to support the country in its fight against Iran-backed Ansar al-Houthi fighters in Yemen. The UK says it will not take part in offensive strikes, but the jets will help protect Saudi cities and critical infrastructure. This as attacks on the kingdom have intensified in recent weeks. We're extremely concerned by Houthi escalation, in particular the targeting of civilians. And we saw that with the outrageous attacks on airports, which have led to hundreds of casualties. We know that this war will not end through military means. We know we need a diplomatic resolution. But in the meantime, I think we have a responsibility to support our allies and protect civilians. The UK will also be sending a transport military aircraft and advisers. It's the latest step up in support for Saudi Arabia after the UK sent an RAF refuelling aircraft in late September at Saudi Arabia's request. The UK is increasingly concerned about the potential fallout of the conflict at home, driving up energy costs and the cost of living, ahead of the government having to make some tough spending decisions. This new deployment of RAF fighter jets comes as defence spending is increasingly at the top of the political agenda here in the UK. The former defence minister, now finance minister John Healey, will deliver his budget in just over a week. He'd previously resigned, saying the UK wasn't spending enough to keep its troops safe. Camille Nedelec, Al Jazeera, London.