Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen expand strikes to Saudi Arabia, alarming the U.S.

President Trump evaluated the possibility of launching military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen over the weekend, according to two U.S. officials. The decision to hold off was due to a delicate balance between supporting Saudi Arabia and avoiding further entanglement in the Middle East. The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had urgently urged Trump to strike the Houthis, as the Iran-backed group approached a critical Red Sea chokepoint.

However, Trump only agreed to provide intelligence and targeting data to the Saudis, refraining from direct military action. Saudi Arabia and Yemen were preparing a counteroffensive against the Houthis, but it had been delayed multiple times. Meanwhile, the Houthis intensified their attacks on Saudi Arabia, including a missile launch towards Riyadh.

Despite assurances from Houthi officials that they would not close the Bab-al-Mandeb Strait, the Saudis repeatedly asked Trump for military intervention, leading to consultations among senior U.S. advisers, including Adm. Brad Cooper. Ultimately, Trump opted against strikes, fearing the potential risks and consequences.