Saudi Arabia Seeks US Military Action Against Iran-Backed Houthi Advance
Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to take direct military action against Iran-backed Houthis, who have seized key positions along Yemen's Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The dramatic strengthening of Houthi control along the coastline of Yemen has triggered urgent discussions at the highest levels in Riyadh and Washington.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is one of the world's most important shipping chokepoints, linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. A narrow passage, it is only about 18 miles wide at its narrowest point and serves as the southern gateway to the Suez Canal. About 7% of global oil output passed through the strait in June, according to Kpler data cited by Reuters.
The rapid advance has exposed vulnerabilities in the Saudi-led effort to contain the group. The U.S. does not want to take direct military action for now, but President Trump told Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Washington would assist with intelligence and targeting support. The White House did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment on the calls or whether additional U.S. military action is under consideration.