Saudi Arabia Prepares for Large-Scale Military Operation Against Houthi Rebels

Saudi Arabia may be preparing for a large-scale military operation against the Yemeni Houthis in central Yemen, which could significantly escalate tensions in one of Asia's key regions.

The Riyadh authorities are considering resuming active hostilities to reduce the threat to oil shipments through the southern part of the Red Sea, according to The Guardian.

Yemeni sources claim that Saudi troops have begun withdrawing units from eastern Yemen, which is controlled by the internationally recognized government, an ally of Saudi Arabia.

The withdrawal may be linked to preparations for an attack on the province of Al-Bayda in south-central Yemen, which the Houthis captured in 2020-2021.

Saudi Arabia is also working to establish an international maritime coalition designed to protect shipping from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.