Saudi Arabia Alone in Two-Front War Against Iran-Backed Militias
Saudi Arabia is facing significant challenges as it navigates a two-front war with Iran-aligned militias in Iraq and Houthi forces in Yemen.
The Houthis have been launching missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, including Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, causing disruptions to oil exports and threatening Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's bid to diversify the kingdom's economy under Vision 2030.
Despite being a major player in the region, Saudi Arabia has few dependable allies on the ground in Yemen, with its National Resistance Forces having melted away during the Houthi advance.
Analysts say that Saudi Arabia is 'alone' and has 'few cards to play' in this conflict, with some questioning why it didn't deploy its substantial air force to stop the Houthi advance along the Red Sea.