Israel Views Houthi Control of Bab al-Mandab Strait as Global Threat

Israel considers the Houthi takeover of the Bab al-Mandab strait a "worrying development" due to its critical role as a global economic waterway, noting its narrowness compared to the Strait of Hormuz and the potential for Houthi attacks on shipping. The Israeli military is unlikely to intervene unless directly attacked, as the situation is seen as a global, not just regional, threat. Israeli officials are criticizing a perceived "collapse of deterrence" in the region and a lack of response from Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government.

According to Israeli officials cited by Yedioth Ahronoth, Saudi Arabia would need to alter its policies, including distancing itself from Turkey and Pakistan and re-engaging with the Abraham Accords, to receive Israeli assistance against the Houthis. While no immediate Saudi request for help is anticipated, some Israeli officials may be exploring Saudi intentions. The Houthi threat is viewed as an indirect concern for Israel compared to Saudi Arabia's direct existential threat, prompting the Houthis to assure free passage for Israeli and American ships to deter potential attacks.

Israeli security concerns include the possibility of a serious Iran-led alliance forming if the Houthis effectively exploit their control of the strait. The Israeli Navy has been placed on full alert to defend Israeli maritime assets and ensure freedom of navigation, recognizing that the Red Sea events represent a significant threat that could extend to the Mediterranean. Given that 98% of Israel's imports arrive by sea, the security establishment considers this a major threat.

Military analyst Amos Harel of Haaretz suggests that the conflict between the US and Iran is creating regional repercussions, impacting other conflicts like the Saudi-Houthi war. He notes that President Trump's approach of economic pressure rather than direct military confrontation with Iran has not led to a swift resolution, and Iran's "offensive doctrine" utilizing regional proxies is evident. The Saudi-Houthi conflict is seen as integrated into Iran's broader strategy, with the Houthis fearing a Saudi ground invasion. While Trump's economic war has had some success, it has not resulted in the promised decisive victory, and the conflict continues to affect global oil markets.

Harel also points out that Iran and its allies are imposing significant costs on US partners in the Gulf. He observes that a recent Saudi-led "new alliance" with Turkey and Pakistan has not translated into tangible support for partners facing difficulties. Israel is watching the Gulf conflict from the sidelines, and Prime Minister Netanyahu's repeated challenges to Iran, even on the Lebanese front, appear aimed at drawing Iran into a wider conflict.