Trump calls off planned US strikes on Houthis at last minute after Saudi plea - report

In a dramatic last-minute decision, US President Donald Trump canceled planned military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, according to The New York Times. The decision came after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman repeatedly appealed to Trump for US intervention against the Iran-backed Houthis. The conflict had escalated, placing pressure on Saudi Arabia and increasing tensions in the region.

After weighing the requests from Saudi Arabia, Trump was initially inclined to authorize the strikes but later changed his mind as the operation was about to commence, according to administration officials. The strikes were halted at a late stage, with military commanders already approving target lists, troops loading bombs, and the first wave of attacks nearing execution.

The decision exposed a dilemma for the administration, as most of Trump's inner circle were skeptical of joining Saudi Arabia's fight against the Houthis, citing the additional strain on US forces. However, the US still relied on Saudi cooperation in its broader regional strategy, and the Houthis' territorial gains in Yemen threatened Saudi interests.

Despite Trump's statement that Washington was in direct communication with the Houthis and they agreed not to attack American forces, the potential US intervention had implications for US relations with the group and the ongoing war with Iran. The situation remains unresolved as the Houthis continue advancing in Yemen.