The United States has rejected a request from Saudi Arabia to carry out direct air strikes against Yemen’s Houthi forces, according to a report by Axios published by TRT World.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly asked US President Donald Trump to launch attacks against the Houthis after the group made major gains along Yemen’s Red Sea coast.
The Houthis recently captured the strategic port city of Mocha and moved closer to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s most important shipping routes. The group has also reached the Hanish islands, further strengthening its position near the narrow waterway.
Instead of launching direct attacks, Washington has offered Saudi Arabia intelligence and targeting support, according to the TRT World report. The US is also concerned about keeping the Red Sea open to international shipping.
The Houthi advance has increased pressure on Saudi Arabia and raised fears of wider regional fighting. The group has also launched attacks on Saudi territory, including strikes that injured dozens of people and damaged oil-related facilities.
The latest developments come as tensions involving Iran, the United States and their regional allies continue to grow. Iran has denied directly directing Houthi military operations, although sources say Tehran has provided the group with weapons and military advice.
The situation is also raising concerns for global trade and energy supplies. Any major disruption around Bab al-Mandeb could affect ships travelling between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, adding pressure to already rising oil prices.
