US Mediates Saudi-Israeli Talks on Yemen Houthi Threat

Reports indicate that the United States is mediating communications between Saudi Arabia and Israel concerning the escalating attacks by Yemen's Houthi movement. Saudi Arabia is seeking regional and international support to counter missile and drone strikes targeting its territory. According to "The Times of Israel," citing a report in "Israel Hayom," the U.S. Central Command is coordinating these discussions, aiming to leverage Israeli intelligence to assist Saudi Arabia in repelling Houthi assaults. The report suggests that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman contacted U.S. Central Command to request Israeli assistance, with diplomatic and security sources also indicating Riyadh sought support from other Gulf nations and Egypt.

Further reports from American sources suggest that bin Salman had previously asked U.S. President Donald Trump to conduct military strikes against the Houthis, prompted by the group's advances in strategic Yemeni areas and threats to shipping in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. However, "Axios," quoting U.S. officials, stated that Trump declined this request for the time being, and Washington does not intend to carry out direct strikes against the Houthis, though discussions on security threats with Saudi Arabia continue.

Meanwhile, "Haaretz," citing two senior security officials, reported that Israeli military officials advised the political leadership against direct strikes on the Houthis or taking actions that would place Israel at the forefront of a military confrontation with them. These military officials advocated for focusing on a political track to form an international and regional coalition against the Houthis, rather than a unilateral Israeli move that could broaden the conflict. No official public confirmation has been made regarding the details of these reported communications or the nature of any potential intelligence cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Israel, nor has Riyadh announced its agreement to Israeli military participation in confronting the Houthis.