Answer Saudi Arabia: Israel must take the opportunity presented by the Houthi attack – editorial

An editorial in The Jerusalem Post argues that Israel should assist Saudi Arabia with intelligence against Iran-backed Houthi attacks, which threaten global shipping and energy markets. The Houthis have expanded control along Yemen's Red Sea coast, including the critical Bab al-Mandab strait, and have targeted Saudi oil infrastructure and Israeli cities. Israel has a strategic interest in containing this threat, which affects its access to the Red Sea and the Port of Eilat.

“Iran’s strategy is straightforward: Turn geography into leverage.”

While direct military intervention is not advised, intelligence cooperation is seen as prudent and beneficial to Israel's security interests. This cooperation could also foster a diplomatic opportunity, building on shared interests between Israel and Saudi Arabia, even without immediate full normalization.