Israel Reportedly Shares Intelligence with Saudi Arabia on Houthi Threats

Israel and Saudi Arabia have reportedly begun discussions, facilitated by the U.S. Central Command, for Israel to provide intelligence on Houthi forces to Riyadh. This comes as the Houthis have escalated attacks against Saudi interests over the past week, including a drone strike on oil pipelines that caused partial disruption to the kingdom's main pipeline. The Houthis have also reportedly targeted civilians in a mosque near the Saudi-Yemen border and seized strategic Red Sea islands, blocking Saudi vessels in the Bab el-Mandeb strait.

Regional sources indicate that the intelligence requested from Israel would primarily focus on mapping Houthi military deployments and anticipating future operations. Israel's military, the IDF, has previously showcased its intelligence and maritime capabilities, notably assisting the U.S. in tracking Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia has also sought assistance from the United Kingdom to counter Houthi advances in the Bab el-Mandeb strait and protect its oil infrastructure. While London has agreed to send military advisors, it has not committed to further aid.

Despite the lack of official diplomatic relations, Israel and Saudi Arabia share common security interests. Growing regional threats may accelerate their cooperation, with Washington continuing to encourage normalization between the two nations.