Netanyahu Seeks Saudi Approval for Strikes Against Houthi Forces
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking Saudi Arabian approval to launch military strikes against Houthi forces in Yemen following deadly attacks in Riyadh.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking approval from Saudi Arabia to launch military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. Working through American mediators, Netanyahu aims to weaken the Houthi threat and establish a foundation for future diplomatic normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
The request follows a surge in Houthi aggression, including strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh that killed at least 13 people and wounded over 300. While Saudi-led forces have intensified airstrikes to protect the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has remained reluctant to permit Israeli intervention due to concerns over domestic public opinion.
Saudi Arabia continues to maintain that normalization requires the establishment of a Palestinian state, a condition Netanyahu rejects. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States is considering joining Saudi military operations against the Houthis. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the Houthi attacks on Riyadh as a blatant disregard for civilian life.
