Trump Rejects Saudi Request for Strikes on Houthis as Yemen Conflict Escalates

US President Donald Trump has refused to grant Saudi Arabia's request for airstrikes against Houthi fighters in Yemen. The Iran-backed Houthis, who have controlled large parts of northern Yemen for years, launched a massive offensive last week, killing hundreds and pushing the Saudi-backed government forces back. In response, Saudi Arabia conducted dozens of airstrikes, including two that hit an airport.

The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called Trump on Thursday to brief him on the deteriorating military situation in Yemen, specifically mentioning the Houthi forces' approach to the coastal city of Mokha. He requested strikes on the Houthis, but Trump declined. Instead, Washington will provide intelligence and targeting data to help the Saudis, with over 200 US military personnel already stationed in Saudi Arabia.

The conflict in Yemen has become a focal point in the Middle East war, which started with US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The Islamic republic retaliated by blockading another crucial waterway for global energy flows, the Strait of Hormuz. Brent North Sea Crude and US oil contract WTI are currently above $100.