Saudi Arabia Rejects Israeli Aid in Houthi Conflict Amidst Escalating Battles

Intense fighting between Houthi rebels and pro-Saudi forces has been captured in footage described as "Mad Max-style," as Saudi Arabia reportedly rejected an offer of support from Israel in the ongoing conflict. The images are believed to show Iran-backed Houthi fighters pursuing Yemeni pro-Saudi forces across desert terrain.

A Saudi convoy of armored vehicles is seen attempting to advance on Houthi positions. In one captured moment, an explosion sends a body airborne before it impacts the ground. Other footage depicts armored trucks, some equipped with machine guns, being overturned by explosives, with the source of the blasts unclear.

Additional video shows a pickup truck speeding across the sand, causing soldiers in the rear to be violently jostled. One soldier is seen being thrown from the vehicle and left behind.

These developments occur amidst reports that Saudi Arabia has turned down assistance from Israel. According to Haaretz, citing a diplomatic source, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman rejected offers from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to concerns about a potential backlash from the Saudi public. Netanyahu reportedly sought to strengthen ties with the kingdom amid ongoing U.S.-Israeli actions against Iran.

Following several weekend missile attacks by the Houthis on Riyadh, including strikes on King Khalid International Airport that resulted in casualties, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that Washington might consider involvement in the conflict. Trump, who has previously described Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a "good friend," stated he would "look at" potential U.S. engagement.

Reports from The Wall Street Journal suggest the escalating attacks have led the 41-year-old Crown Prince to move between heavily guarded palaces equipped with bunkers, relying on a handpicked security team. He was last seen publicly on the previous Tuesday, donating blood for a national drive.

The recent combat footage follows similar videos released last week, allegedly showing Saudi-led coalition soldiers firing on Houthi fighters in armored trucks, including apparent instances of surrendering rebels being struck down.