Houthi Advance in Yemen Puts US in a Difficult Position

As the conflict with Iran enters its seventh month, sudden attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen are threatening critical oil corridors. This development has left US President Trump facing a difficult choice between military intervention and leaving allies to fend for themselves.

Strategic Advance of the Houthis

Iran-backed Houthi fighters have advanced south along the Yemeni coast, increasing the potential to control the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the entrance to the Red Sea.

The militants reaching Perim Island, located in the middle of the strait, poses a major risk for Saudi Arabia, which ships its oil from Red Sea ports after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A Difficult Period for Washington and Trump

These developments come at a very difficult time for President Trump, who is struggling with low approval ratings in the US and looking for ways to exit the conflict.

Rising US gasoline prices due to the clashes jeopardize the Republican Party's chances of retaining control of Congress in the November midterm elections.

Saudi Arabia's Request for Military Assistance

Saudi Arabia's de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, called Trump to request military assistance from the US to combat the Houthis.

Sources stated that the prince was informed that Washington would not directly intervene for now but would provide intelligence support.

Threat to Global Trade and Oil

If the Houthis close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, 7 percent of global oil supplies and approximately 12 percent of global trade will be adversely affected.

Analysts emphasize that the US is forced to choose between using military force to stop the Houthis and leaving its allies alone.