Trump backs ally Netanyahu ahead of Israel's tight election

President Donald Trump may have an opportunity to unite Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel against Iran and the Houthis. The Houthis, a radical Shia group, threaten international shipping and the Saudi monarchy by attacking their energy infrastructure and military installations. The strategic Mecca defense pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan declares that an attack on one member is an attack on all three, but questions linger about whether this pact will ever confront Iranian proxies.

Turkey and nuclear-armed Pakistan possess formidable military capabilities that, when combined with Saudi Arabia, could significantly impact the Houthis and weaken Iran's bargaining position with the United States. Trump's relationships with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani officials offer opportunities for meaningful military cooperation with Riyadh.

Another option for deterring the Houthis is for Saudi Arabia to reconcile with the UAE and cooperate militarily with Israel, with support from American intelligence and logistics. This strategy could strengthen deterrence without requiring another large-scale American commitment. Trump should make it clear to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that deeper American security commitments cannot replace regional cooperation with the UAE and Israel.

The US should recognize that Iran is not defeated, but its military capabilities have been significantly weakened. However, Iran's nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile capabilities, and surviving proxies remain unresolved. Supporting Iran's disaffected populations to challenge the Islamic Republic from within could increase pressure on Tehran without committing American ground forces.