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US opts not to back Saudi Arabia in Yemen after meeting Houthi leaders
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- US officials met with Houthi leaders in Oman, resulting in the US decision not to intervene militarily to support Saudi Arabia against the Houthi advance in Yemen, with Houthis reaffirming a 2025 ceasefire and pledging not to target US shipping in the Red Sea.
- Despite condemning the Houthi advance threatening Bab al-Mandab strait navigation, the US under Donald Trump is avoiding direct involvement due to its ongoing conflict with Iran, which backs the Houthis.
- Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of firing a drone at Mecca, which the Houthis denied, calling the claim propaganda; the incident drew condemnation from the UN-recognized Yemeni government, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and Pakistan.
- A secret meeting in Germany involving military leaders from the US, Israel, and Arab states discussed coordinated efforts against Iran, with Israel offering to support Saudi Arabia in Yemen.
- China urged de-escalation in Yemen and the Red Sea region, calling on the US to return to negotiations based on a June memorandum, while Iran sought Chinese backing for its control plans over the Hormuz Strait amid ongoing blockades.
