Saudi Arabia Joins US Forces in Strikes Against Iranian Proxies

Saudi Arabia has joined US forces in carrying out air strikes on Iranian proxy groups in Iraq, marking its first direct participation in Donald Trump's war. The joint attack came after a series of drone attacks on 'US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure' within 72 hours, according to the US Central Command.

The move may seem sudden, but it reflects a shift in Riyadh's calculus. On July 20, Yemen's Houthis announced a blockade on Saudi ships crossing the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, which aligns with Iran's agenda and the group's desire for leverage over Saudi Arabia.

While Saudi oil exports have been partially allowed through, using vessels owned by China, India, or Pakistan, this provides only temporary relief. The Houthis' blockade has trapped partly supplies through a bypass pipeline, and re-routing them to Egypt would add 25 days to their journey out to Asian markets.