Houthi Red Sea advance, drone strikes leave Saudi Arabia isolated in major conflict - analysis

Saudi Arabia finds itself facing a potential two-front conflict after the Houthi advance along the Red Sea. The Houthis, Iranian-backed militias, have taken control of islands near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, while also attacking Saudi Arabia and even threatening Mecca. This offensive came as a shock, as it highlighted weaknesses in Saudi Arabia's assessments and command structure of its Yemeni allies.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visited Cairo, and Egypt may support a Saudi response, but the US is not expected to challenge the Houthis. Saudi Arabia appears more isolated than before, with reports suggesting Israel and Saudi Arabia could have new interests in common. The Houthis have launched attacks on Saudi soil, firing drones and missiles at fighter jet hangars, radars, runways, and ammunition depots at King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait.

Iran denies any involvement, claiming the Houthis are independent actors. The Houthis' strategic gains in the Red Sea could enable them to threaten shipping and Saudi energy exports while expanding connections toward the Horn of Africa. Despite their past successes, the Houthis have shown they can still cause significant damage despite past setbacks.