Trump Says Israel Aids Saudis Against Houthis, Hints at Normalization

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Israel is assisting Saudi Arabia in its campaign against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, expressing optimism about advancing a historic normalization agreement between Jerusalem and Riyadh. Trump made these remarks to reporters before departing for Georgia, responding affirmatively when asked if Saudi Arabia should accept Israeli assistance, noting that Israel had helped Saudi Arabia significantly. While the President did not specify the nature of the aid, he implied that the possibility of Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords was back on the table. These declarations come amid a sharp escalation in Houthi attacks against strategic targets within the Kingdom.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously mentioned that nearly all countries in the region seek assistance from Israel, but he did not explicitly confirm details of any cooperation with Riyadh. The primary obstacle to normalization remains Saudi Arabia's demand for a pathway to establishing a Palestinian state. The article also notes internal turmoil within the U.S. administration, specifically the swift dismissal of White House spokesperson Katy Zacharias after only five days. Her departure followed a hesitant press conference and revelations about her professional background. It was discovered that despite being presented as having a legal background, she is not licensed to practice law, having failed the California bar exam in 2011 and not retaking it. Following this setback and disappointment in the President's office, Trump advised her to reconsider her role, and her dismissal, making her the shortest-serving spokesperson in White House history, was approved hours later.