Key facts
- Saudi Arabia is considering military escalation against the Houthis.
- Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi warned of full-scale escalation if provoked.
- A recent flight to Sanaa airport carrying military experts and Houthi officials led to retaliatory strikes.
- The UN-backed ceasefire in Yemen has expired.
- Saudi Arabia is seeking US support amid rising tensions.
Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering military options in response to escalating threats from the Houthi group, a move that could signal a return to conflict in Yemen. These discussions come as a four-year ceasefire is being tested by recent exchanges of fire.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi has warned of full-scale escalation if Saudi Arabia engages in strikes against Yemen, threatening Saudi oil facilities and vital installations. He reiterated support for Iran's actions against American bases in the region. The Houthis have announced full combat readiness, claiming hundreds of thousands of trained personnel.
Tensions flared after a flight carrying Iranian military experts and Houthi officials landed at Sanaa airport. The Houthis accused Saudi Arabia of bombing the airport to prevent the plane's return, leading to retaliatory missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha. The UN-backed ceasefire, which has largely held despite its expiration, has been strained by these events.
Saudi Arabia is seeking to bolster US support amid rising regional tensions. The US has reportedly given Saudi Arabia leeway to pursue offensive strikes against the Houthis, though a final decision has not been made. The US State Department also announced the approval of a sale of 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems to Saudi Arabia. Experts note that while the Houthis could potentially escalate by closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, this is considered unlikely as it would draw unwanted attention and potentially involve the US in further conflict.