Following the rapid military action by the Houthis on the shores of the Red Sea in Yemen and the urgent request from Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, to President Trump for military assistance, Trump stated that the Houthis have been in contact with him and have committed to allowing ships to pass through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Houthis' Commitment to Facilitate Maritime Traffic
Trump, who is currently in Ireland, told reporters: "The Houthis called us and do not want to fight us. They informed us that they wish to avoid conflict with us and prefer our non-intervention." He also noted that while the Houthis are allowing more ships to pass, there are still restrictions on Saudi vessels.
These statements align with recent announcements from Ansar Allah, which emphasize the openness of the Red Sea route, but are limited to vessels associated with Saudi Arabia and Israel. This points to the rejection of bin Salman’s request to Trump for military intervention in Yemen.
Impacts on Maritime Security and Oil Exports
Analysts believe that the Houthis' victories in this region could have significant impacts on Saudi oil exports and maritime security. Aran Kennedy, a maritime security analyst, pointed out that although these advances strengthen the Houthis' position in the Red Sea, it does not mean a complete closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
He also noted that "even though the Houthis have captured these areas, it does not mean they intend to close this strait. This situation gives them greater capabilities and brings their weapons closer to maritime routes." Given the current developments, this situation allows Tehran to influence the Houthis and take severe actions in the region if necessary.
