Israel, Saudi Arabia Secretly Share Intel to Counter Houthi Threat
Israel and Saudi Arabia have been holding secret talks to help Riyadh defend itself against Houthi attacks. The discussions, mediated by US Central Command, aim to provide intelligence assistance to the Saudis. The Houthi military has intensified its attacks on Saudi oil pipelines and pumping facilities, leading to a partial shutdown of activity along the main pipeline.
The Houthis have also seized several strategically located islands along the Red Sea and barred Saudi vessels from passing through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. This has imposed an economic and diplomatic blockade on Saudi Arabia, raising concerns among other countries in the region.
Saudi Arabia has asked for help from both the US and Britain to defend against Houthi attacks. The UK has agreed to send British military advisors to assist the Saudis, but has not yet committed to sending additional aid.