Saudi Arabia Seeks Israeli Intelligence to Counter Houthi Threat at Bab al-Mandab

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly requested Israeli intelligence assistance to prevent the Houthi movement from closing the strategic Bab al-Mandab strait, according to a report by Israel Hayom. The report, citing diplomatic sources, indicated that Saudi Arabia also approached other regional nations and indirectly sought help from Israel via U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) for intelligence and other aid in its war against the Houthis, a conflict where it is reportedly suffering significant setbacks.

The report highlighted Saudi Arabia's precarious position, with its oil export routes threatened simultaneously at the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab strait, and its land corridor to the Red Sea. This situation is exacerbated by a perceived lack of direct military intervention from the United States, despite Saudi requests, leading to concerns about its primary ally's willingness to meet its expectations.

Israel's security establishment is closely monitoring the Houthi advances, viewing the control of Bab al-Mandab as a grave concern not only for Israel but for global maritime trade. While Israel has described the Houthi actions as alarming, it is unlikely to intervene unless directly attacked. The narrowness of the strait, particularly near Hodeidah, makes it vulnerable to blockade, potentially impacting global trade significantly.

Critics within Israel have reportedly questioned the lack of response from Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government to the Houthi gains, which have placed the Houthis in a position of strength. The Israeli military views the developments in the Red Sea as a major shift that could extend to the Mediterranean. In response, the Israeli military has enhanced its readiness, bolstering its naval forces and command centers to protect its maritime assets and ensure freedom of navigation, recognizing the critical importance of sea lanes for importing goods.