Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The United States, under President Trump, is closely monitoring a fresh wave of Houthi attacks on Saudi territory. Yemen’s Iran‑aligned Houthis fired dozens of missiles and drones at a military airbase in Khamis Mushait, striking aircraft hangars, radar systems, runways and ammunition depots. Saudi authorities issued emergency alerts in four southern cities, and the Saudi‑led coalition reported thirteen civilian injuries.
Strategic pressure on Saudi oil exports
In recent days the Houthis have seized Perim Island at the mouth of the Red Sea and intensified pressure on Saudi oil exports. An aerial strike earlier this week knocked out Saudi Arabia’s east‑west pipeline, a 1,200‑kilometer conduit built in the 1980s to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Traders warned that a prolonged shutdown could cut as much as 4% of global oil supply.
U.S. response and President Trump’s stance
President Trump, speaking from the White House, reiterated his belief that Iran is eager to reach a deal quickly, a message he has emphasized in recent remarks. He also noted that the Houthis have directly appealed to Washington to stay out of the conflict. While the United States continues to provide intelligence support to Saudi forces, the administration has resisted calls for direct military intervention.
“We are committed to protecting our allies and ensuring the free flow of oil, but we must also avoid a broader regional war,” President Trump said. “Diplomacy remains the best path forward, and I have urged all parties to return to the negotiating table.”
Diplomatic talks stall
Oman was slated to host a meeting of Iran and Gulf Arab states to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane that once carried 20% of the world’s oil exports. The meeting was postponed at Saudi Arabia’s request, and Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, dismissed Trump’s comments as a distraction, insisting that no talks will proceed until Iran’s conditions are met.
Regional tensions and maritime incidents
Conflicting reports have emerged about a Panamanian‑flagged tanker, the El Gaia, allegedly damaged in the Strait. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed the vessel was hit by sea mines, while U.S. Central Command said the tanker was struck by an Iranian missile last month. The United Nations International Maritime Organization confirmed damage but did not specify the cause, noting two seafarers were missing.
Impact on oil markets
Crude oil prices rose more than 4% on Monday before settling about 1% higher, reflecting market anxiety over the renewed conflict and the potential for further disruptions to global supply.
The Trump administration continues to work with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and regional partners to de‑escalate the situation, emphasizing the importance of protecting both American energy interests and the stability of allied nations.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
