Saudi Arabia facing growing pressure on multiple fronts as Houthis escalate in Yemen

Saudi Arabia is experiencing "great anxiety and pressure" due to escalating threats from multiple fronts, according to a source close to the Saudi government. The Houthis in Yemen are expanding their capabilities, while Iran poses a threat to critical infrastructure, including desalination facilities. Riyadh is pursuing negotiation with Iran due to concerns about potential attacks, but has adopted a more aggressive military approach against the Houthis, whom they initially underestimated. A diplomat noted, "They really thought that they had Yemeni forces who could really stand up to the Houthis." Saudi Arabia's initial reluctance to use air power aggressively allowed the Houthis to make significant gains along Yemen's Red Sea coast, a decision a diplomat called a "huge mistake." Despite increased Saudi air power now, US President Donald Trump has refused to conduct airstrikes against the Houthis. Diplomats in the region indicate that Israel is assisting Saudi Arabia by sharing intelligence on the Houthis, mediated by CENTCOM.