Saudi Arabia Seeks U.S., UK, and Israeli Help Against Houthi Offensive

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sought emergency military and intelligence assistance from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel to counter a major Houthi offensive in Yemen that has seized key territory along the Red Sea coast. The request comes as Houthi forces have captured the port of Mocha and Perim Island, gaining control over the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping lane for global oil supplies. According to reports, Saudi Arabia initially approached the United States for help, which then facilitated intelligence transfers from Israel through U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). Israeli officials have been providing intelligence to Riyadh via this channel, marking a significant development given the two nations lack formal diplomatic relations. The cooperation is part of a broader U.S.-led effort to coordinate a regional response to the Houthi threat. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on September 15 to discuss the escalating situation. The U.S.