Saudi Arabia’s nightmare scenario comes true as Houthis threaten crucial Red Sea shipping route and drone attacks force closure of major pipeline
For decades, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have relied on U.S. security guarantees. Those have eroded under Trump.
Saudi Arabia has faced an unprecedented crisis as Houthi rebels advance and threaten a vital Red Sea shipping route, while drone attacks from Iraqi militias have led to the closure of a major pipeline, according to recent reports. This series of events has left the kingdom in a precarious position, with global markets reacting to the instability.
The United States, Saudi Arabia's closest ally, has been cautious about escalating the situation ahead of upcoming elections. Iran's influence has also grown, with the Houthis' advance and pipeline shutdown increasing economic pressure on Iran. Former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney called the developments "incredibly frustrating" for the kingdom, noting that Saudi Arabia had never sought this conflict and now faces its worst-case scenarios coming true.
The Saudi government has vowed to defend itself and work with allies like the U.S. to maintain freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. However, the kingdom's hopes for a new Middle East have been dashed, and the Houthis' recent successes have put pressure on Riyadh to respond. Saudi Arabia's oil exports have plummeted from around 3.4 million barrels per day in June to just 700,000 barrels in August, raising concerns about the global economy.
The Saudi government is exploring various options, including military action, diplomatic solutions, or seeking U.S. assistance, but each comes with significant risks and uncertain outcomes.
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