Yemen Conflict Expands to Saudi Arabia Amid US Iran Deal Talks

The conflict involving Iran is escalating despite U.S. President Donald Trump's statements about an imminent deal with Tehran. While Washington discusses post-war plans, hostilities are spreading to Yemen and Saudi Arabia, according to Maariv. Following Saudi airstrikes in Yemen, Houthi forces have intensified attacks on Saudi territory, targeting the Yanbu oil port and an airbase near Khamis Mushait, according to Houthi representatives. The Saudi coalition has conducted approximately 450 airstrikes in Yemen over the past week.

Concerns are particularly high regarding Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure. An attack on the "East-West" oil pipeline could significantly impact oil exports, and potential disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz pose additional risks to the global energy market. This strait previously handled a substantial portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Oil prices remain elevated, with Brent crude around $104 per barrel, and U.S. diesel prices exceeding $6.30 per gallon. Continued supply disruptions could increase economic pressure on regional and global markets. The U.S. is implementing additional security measures, restricting government employees' proximity to the Saudi-Yemeni border and tightening recommendations for U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia.

Simultaneously, the Trump administration is planning for the post-war phase. Trump is expected to meet with representatives from Gulf states in New York during the UN General Assembly to discuss the region's future structure. Potential attendees include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. The White House has not officially confirmed the meeting's details.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed interest in meeting with Trump in New York, though no concrete arrangements have been made.