Saudi Arabia prepares naval strike and possible ground push against Houthi rebels

Saudi Arabia is reportedly gearing up for a large-scale assault on the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, combining naval action with the prospect of a ground invasion in southern Yemen. After withdrawing forces from eastern Yemen, the kingdom has assembled a thirteen-nation maritime coalition to protect the Bab al-Mandab Strait, where the Houthis have blocked Saudi shipping. The coalition issued a joint statement pledging to keep the waterway open, while Riyadh has called on the United States and European countries to join the effort.

Prince Khalid bin Salman met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance to outline the strategy and seek broader international support. The Red Sea has grown in importance as the Strait of Hormuz faces Iranian and U.S. embargoes, making the blockade a critical threat to Saudi oil exports and global trade routes.