Saudi Crown Prince Urges U.S. Action Against Houthis

Washington — Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has urged President Trump to consider military action against the Iran-backed Houthis. These discussions have occurred amidst the Houthis’ swift advances along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, CBS News learned from two sources familiar with the negotiations. The president and the crown prince have communicated numerous times recently regarding the rising tension.

So far, President Trump has opted against direct U.S. military involvement. Instead, he has offered to support with intelligence and targeting, as shared by the sources who wished to remain anonymous.

Adm. Bradley Cooper, the U.S. Central Command commander, was reportedly in Saudi Arabia for related talks. A CENTCOM representative declined to confirm his location.

The Saudi efforts aim to form a coalition against the Houthis, with concerns of potential Iranian retaliation if the Houthis face attacks. A source noted the worry that if Iran is provoked, Saudi Arabia might be targeted. “They are preparing a coalition to protect themselves if Iran retaliates,” one source said. “Saudi Arabia hopes the U.S. will follow their lead if needed.”

Recently, Houthi forces captured the key port of Mokha and gained control over strategic areas near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Yemen’s government reported that the Houthis now hold all islands in the strait, increasing their influence over this crucial passageway.

Oil prices have hovered around $100 a barrel, with possible increases if hostilities continue in the region. As of Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. is closely monitoring the developments in Yemen. The State Department has not commented on the situation.

A senior administration official emphasized that the U.S. is committed to safeguarding national security interests, such as maintaining free navigation in the Red Sea. They highlighted that the U.S. is in constant conversation with Saudi Arabia and Yemen about regional stability.

President Trump has shown hesitance towards further military action unless deemed essential. At a Republican midterm event, he stated, “We have built the world’s strongest military, yet must ensure Iran never possesses a nuclear weapon.”

This week saw increased U.S.-Iran conflict, with U.S. forces striking Iranian oil tankers following Iran’s attack on a U.S. Navy ship. Additionally, Iran fired at a U.S. base in Jordan, inflicting damage on American aircraft. In response, U.S. forces used over 30 Patriot missiles in defense.