Saudi-Israel Alliance Takes Shape Against Houthi Threats

Saudi Arabia and Israel have reportedly been working together behind the scenes to counter Houthi threats, with Israeli intelligence assistance helping Riyadh locate Houthi military units and understand their future operational plans.

The cooperation was facilitated by US-mediated talks between the two countries, which took place following a sharp escalation in Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia. The group used drones to strike oil pipelines and pumping facilities, partially disrupting operations along a major pipeline.

Houthi forces were also accused of attacking Saudi civilians at a mosque and nearby buildings close to the Saudi-Yemeni border. The Houthi seizure of several strategically positioned islands in the Red Sea and blocking of Saudi vessels from passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait further added economic and political pressure on Riyadh.

Regional security officials expressed concern that Washington may reach separate understandings with Iran and the Houthis without resolving the threats facing its regional partners, leaving those countries vulnerable to continued attacks. Israel's reported role in providing intelligence assistance appears to have been focused on helping Saudi Arabia build a broader picture of Houthi deployments and detecting preparations for further attacks.