Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing for a significant military assault against the Iran-backed Houthis, a move that intensifies concerns over a widening conflict in the Middle East. The Kingdom is said to be readying for both naval and potential ground operations aimed at breaking the Houthis' control over vital shipping routes in the Red Sea.
Recent movements include Saudi forces withdrawing from Eastern Yemen, which could signal the initial stages of an invasion into the country's southern regions, according to reports. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia has established a maritime coalition to counter further Houthi attacks in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The Houthis have previously imposed a blockade on Saudi ships in this critical waterway.
The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a crucial transit point for Saudi Arabia. With the Strait of Hormuz facing restrictions due to ongoing international sanctions, approximately half of Saudi crude oil exports now transit the Red Sea, a significant increase from previous reliance on Hormuz. Losing access to Bab al-Mandab would force lengthy diversions around Africa for shipments to Asia, potentially extending travel times from 16 days to 50.
Thirteen countries, including areas of Yemen not under Houthi control, have joined the Saudi-led naval alliance. These nations have issued a joint statement pledging to uphold freedom of navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Saudi Arabia has also extended an invitation for the United States and European nations to join this coalition.
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance to discuss the Kingdom's strategy against the Houthis and to advocate for de-escalation efforts concerning Iran. Shipping traffic in the Red Sea has been disrupted since November 2023, when the Houthis began targeting vessels navigating the waterway, an action they stated was in support of Hamas's conflict with Israel.