Saudi Arabia Confronts New Threats from Iran-Backed Houthis

Saudi Arabia's position in the Middle East has become increasingly precarious as it faces threats from Iran and its allies. The Houthis have made significant gains, including capturing the port city of Mokha and a Red Sea island from Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces. This has allowed the rebels to block Saudi shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb, reducing oil exports to Asia from 3.4 million barrels per day in June to just 128,000 in August.

The Saudi pipeline leading from major oil fields in the east to the Red Sea in the west was shut down due to drone attacks originating in Iraq, where Iran supports powerful militias. The Houthis have also resumed large-scale attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, causing a significant decline in exports.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, has spent years trying to build a more prosperous and integrated region through wide-ranging social and economic changes. However, his efforts have been set back by the ongoing conflict with the Houthis, which has killed an estimated 150,000 people and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

The Saudi government is facing few options in responding to the crisis. Stepping up their military response could prolong the conflict and lead to even heavier Houthi attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure. Seeking a diplomatic solution with either the Houthis or their patrons in Tehran may also be difficult, given the Houthis' demands for the lifting of the Saudi-led blockade.