Will Trump attack Yemen’s Houthis? 5 big questions

Could President Donald Trump lead the United States into another military campaign against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis? The possibility emerged following a recent attack on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport, raising concerns about the conflict’s potential escalation. The latest assault, which caused injuries and disrupted flights, followed earlier strikes that killed Saudis and targeted other key assets.

With Saudi-led forces already combating the Houthis, Trump’s comments have left five critical questions about future actions. Why did Trump hint at military involvement? Trump stated that Washington is evaluating the possibility of joining Saudi-led military strikes, though he did not commit to a specific course of action. His remarks imply that direct American military intervention is under consideration, though no timetable or specifics have been disclosed.

Why now? The escalation of attacks against Saudi Arabia, particularly Riyadh’s international airport, is the primary catalyst. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for previous strikes that resulted in casualties and disrupted air travel. The attacks have expanded to include airports, military installations, and energy infrastructure, heightening concerns over civilian aviation, regional stability, and global energy supplies.

Is the US already engaged? Washington’s assistance has primarily focused on intelligence sharing, identifying targets, and aiding planning efforts. Direct airstrikes would mark further escalation, but American forces have previously carried out operations against the Houthis, including an eight-week bombing campaign targeting their radar systems last year.

What could stop the Houthis? Saudi-backed Yemeni forces are striving to counter Houthi advances near the strategically vital Bab Al Mandab Strait, a crucial maritime chokepoint linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Recent Houthi gains have enhanced their capacity to monitor shipping movements in the region, a concern given the ongoing dispute with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.

Could US involvement worsen the situation? The primary worry is that American strikes could bolster the Saudi-led campaign against the Houthis by targeting military infrastructure. However, they could also provoke retaliation against regional military bases or commercial shipping. The Houthis have warned airlines against operating in Saudi airspace, and aviation authorities have highlighted the risks posed by missile and drone activity.

Diplomatic efforts, including recent discussions between Saudi Arabia and Oman, continue in search of a political resolution. Ultimately, the central question remains: Will Trump limit US involvement to military support or authorize direct combat against the Houthis? His decision could have far-reaching implications beyond Yemen, impacting Saudi security, regional aviation, and shipping through two of the world’s most sensitive waterways.