Houthi Blockade Threatens Saudi Oil Exports Amid Tensions

Saudi Arabia's military alliances may not be enough to shield it from a potential Houthi Red Sea blockade, threatening to disrupt oil routes and increase pressure on Riyadh. The Houthis could sustain a second front in the Red Sea, targeting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which is crucial for Saudi oil exports to Europe and Asia. This would not only affect the kingdom's economy but also have geopolitical implications. Even if the Hormuz Strait reopens and US-Iran tensions ease, the Houthis' capabilities could still pose a significant threat. The potential blockade could lead to increased pressure on Riyadh, which has already been experiencing economic strain due to low oil prices and high production costs.