Saudi Arabia Gears Up for Major Military Operation Against Houthi Rebels

Saudi Arabia is reportedly gearing up for a major military operation against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, which could include a ground invasion. According to The Guardian, Saudi forces have been seen withdrawing from eastern Yemen, suggesting preparation for a ground attack.

This development comes after a joint statement was issued by the Saudi defense ministry and 13 other countries announcing a maritime defense alliance to secure navigation around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The alliance includes Bahrain, Bangladesh, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, and Yemen.

The Houthis have been at odds with Saudi Arabia and its allies for years, and tensions escalated earlier this month when the group declared a maritime blockade against the kingdom. This move has threatened to disrupt global shipping through the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

The closure of the strait would have significant economic implications, particularly for Saudi Arabia, which relies on it as an alternative route for oil shipments. Red Sea traffic has already been impacted by Houthi attacks on ships in November 2023, and the situation remains precarious.