Saudi Arabia Finds Itself Isolated Amid Houthi Attacks

Saudi Arabia is facing a significant diplomatic and security challenge as its allies are hesitant to offer substantial support against escalating Houthi attacks, according to Noa Lazimi, a researcher specializing in the Houthi movement. Lazimi explains that the current flare-up is intrinsically linked to the ongoing relationship between the Houthis and Iran, who continue to act as their patron despite diminished resources. As tensions rise over the Strait of Hormuz, Iran leverages the Houthis as a pressure point, understanding the importance of maintaining maritime traffic for global economies.

The Houthis have targeted a crucial east-west oil pipeline in the Red Sea, through which Saudi Arabia transports approximately five million barrels of oil daily, impacting both the Saudi economy and global markets. Previous Saudi attempts to mediate an agreement with Iran through Chinese channels, aiming to curb Houthi actions, have failed. The Houthis are reportedly demanding significant financial concessions from Saudi Arabia, which the Saudis are unwilling to meet, while also grappling with internal criticism and budget constraints.

Lazimi highlights the disappointment Saudi Arabia feels towards its allies. The United Arab Emirates, expected to be a partner in confronting the Houthis, recalls its past rivalry with Saudi Arabia over control in Yemen and the subsequent withdrawal from territories after a Saudi-brokered agreement. Despite a shared interest in countering the Houthis, the UAE is not currently providing assistance.

The United States, according to Lazimi, is focused on de-escalating existing conflicts rather than opening new fronts. While previous U.S. airstrikes against the Houthis caused some damage, the group appears to have recovered. A ceasefire agreement, under which the U.S. reportedly pledged not to attack the Houthis as long as they do not target American interests or disrupt trade, further limits direct U.S. intervention.

Even a defense pact signed between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, known as the Mecca Agreement, has not translated into immediate military aid. Turkey and Pakistan have condemned the attacks but are delaying assistance, with Turkey indicating the agreement requires ratification in a month. Lazimi suggests Turkey's involvement is more about positioning itself as a leader of the Sunni world than a commitment to military support, indicating a desire to distance itself from the conflict.

Lazimi posits that Saudi Arabia's remaining option might be Israel, but Israel currently lacks an incentive to escalate tensions with the Houthis, although future escalation is possible. She suggests Saudi Arabia erred by imposing demands on Israel regarding the Palestinian issue and by distancing itself from Israel in favor of alliances with nations hostile to it, and is now facing the consequences. However, Lazimi notes that Israel could offer intelligence and support in managing the military aspects of the conflict, and in return, Israel would be justified in demanding political concessions.