Riyadh Prepares Naval Coalition Against Houthi Rebels Amid Escalating Tensions

Saudi Arabia is preparing for a large-scale military operation against Yemen's Houthi rebels, which may include a naval and ground offensive.

The move comes after the Houthis imposed a blockade on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea, prompting Riyadh to seek an international naval coalition to protect shipping in the region.

The US has launched new strikes against Iran in response to an attack on an American base in Jordan, and the escalation could affect Saudi oil exports, which have already been redirected to terminals on the Red Sea coast due to a separate conflict with Iran.

Riyadh has appealed to the US, Germany, France, Britain, and Italy to join the naval coalition, while the European Union's Aspides mission is already operating in the region to ensure shipping safety.