Israel Reportedly Providing Intelligence Aid to Saudi Arabia Against Houthis

Regional diplomatic sources report a connection between Israel and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by the U.S. Central Command, focusing on intelligence assistance to Riyadh in its fight against the Houthis. This development comes amid escalating attacks by the Houthis and a growing threat to shipping lanes in the region.

According to the reports, Saudi Arabia sought assistance from regional actors in its conflict with the Houthis, which led to the establishment of a communication channel with Israel through U.S. CENTCOM. Currently, the discussions primarily involve the transfer of intelligence information, rather than direct Israeli military involvement.

In parallel with these contacts, the Commander of U.S. Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper, visited Saudi Arabia and met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Their discussions centered on the regional security situation and strategies to counter the activities of the Iran-backed Houthis.

The impetus for these talks is the intensification of Houthi operations, including increased attacks targeting Saudi territory. Reports indicate that 13 civilians were recently injured in one such assault. Concurrently, concerns are mounting over the Houthis' capacity to threaten maritime traffic in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb strait.