UK Considers Military Aid for Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Threat
The UK government is considering requests from Saudi Arabia for military support against Houthi attacks. According to Bloomberg, Prime Minister Andy Burnham is weighing options that could include deploying British troops or equipment to counter the Houthis' advances down the coast.
The UK fears that further Houthi control over the Bab el-Mandeb strait would have a 'catastrophic' impact on international shipping and global oil prices, which in turn would harm the UK economy. This is particularly concerning for Burnham as he aims to focus on reducing the cost of living.
However, Burnham is also mindful of public opinion, which is overwhelmingly against supporting Donald Trump's war against Iran. The current arrangement allows only British military advisors to be deployed to Saudi Arabia, but the kingdom has requested more extensive support.