**Trump Backs Saudi Military Action Against Houthis in Yemen**
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Yemen, US President Donald Trump has reportedly authorized Saudi Arabia to initiate a renewed military operation against the Houthi movement, according to a report by Axios citing US officials. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, which could potentially lead to the collapse of an unofficial truce and further entrench the conflict involving the US and Iran.
The backdrop to this escalation includes a recent airstrike on Sanaa International Airport, controlled by the Houthis. The strike occurred as an Iranian aircraft, reportedly carrying a Houthi delegation returning from the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, approached the Yemeni capital. The aircraft was forced to divert to Al Hudaydah, a port city on the Red Sea, as a result of the attack.
In response to the strike, the Houthis declared an end to their ceasefire with Saudi Arabia and retaliated by launching ballistic missiles and drones targeting Abha International Airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia. They also issued warnings to airlines regarding the use of Saudi airspace, signaling a significant escalation in hostilities.
Prior to the strike, Saudi Arabia sought the backing of the United States. Reports indicate that the Saudi ambassador met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and discussions were held with the Saudi foreign minister. Following these diplomatic engagements, President Trump had a phone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during which the Crown Prince requested and received support for military action against the Houthis.
While the Saudi-backed Yemeni government later claimed responsibility for the airstrike and denied direct involvement from Riyadh, multiple media sources have attributed the attack to Saudi Arabia. As of now, the Saudi government has not officially confirmed its role in the operation.
The conflict in Yemen began when the Houthis, an Iran-aligned Shiite movement, seized control of the capital, Sanaa, in 2014. This prompted a Saudi-led military intervention in 2015 aimed at restoring the internationally recognized Yemeni government. A UN-brokered truce that was established in April 2022 formally expired after six months but had largely succeeded in halting direct cross-border hostilities until now.
This latest escalation not only threatens the fragile situation in Yemen but also has implications for regional dynamics. In 2023, Saudi Arabia and Iran restored diplomatic relations under a China-brokered agreement, and Riyadh has maintained a stance of neutrality amid rising tensions between the US and Iran. Reports suggest that Saudi Arabia has also declined US requests to use its territory for military actions against Iran.
The Houthis have expanded their military operations beyond Yemen, launching missile attacks against Israel in March as part of their broader regional alignment with Iran. This development raises concerns about the potential for a wider conflict that could draw in multiple regional actors.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in Yemen and the implications for regional stability. The renewed military operations and the breakdown of ceasefire agreements highlight the fragility of peace efforts in the region and the complex interplay of local and international interests in the ongoing conflict.