Trump Rejects Saudi Request for Houthi Air Strikes Amid Escalating Conflict
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has requested US President Donald Trump's support for air strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, but was rejected.
The request came after Houthi forces seized control of the strategic coastal city of Mokha in Yemen, bringing them closer to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial waterway for global trade and Saudi oil exports.
Oil prices surged on Thursday due to concerns over the escalating conflict, which could provide Iran with significant leverage over the US and its Gulf allies.
A senior Trump administration official stated that the US is focused on protecting its national security interests in the region, including ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, while empowering regional partners to manage and resolve regional security challenges.