Saudi Arabia gearing up for major assault on Houthis

Key Points:

• Saudi Arabia is preparing for a major naval and possible ground assault against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels to break their control over vital shipping routes in the Red Sea, amid fears of escalating conflict in the Middle East.
• Saudi forces have withdrawn from Eastern Yemen, potentially signaling the start of an invasion in southern Yemen, while also forming a maritime coalition with 13 countries to protect the Bab al-Mandab Strait from Houthi blockades.
• The Houthis have attacked Saudi ships and oil infrastructure, threatening a critical shipping lane as Saudi Arabia shifts more crude oil exports through the Red Sea due to disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz.
• Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has urged former US President Donald Trump to avoid planned strikes on Iran, expressing concern over further escalation despite recent joint strikes on Iran-backed Iraqi militias.
• Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held discussions with US officials to coordinate efforts against the Houthis, and Riyadh has called on the US and Europe to join the naval coalition ensuring freedom of navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.