The long running conflict in Yemen is prompting new regional diplomacy, with reports indicating that Saudi Arabia is turning to Syria for assistance in addressing the Houthi movement, and Yemen's internationally recognized government calling on Iran to halt arms support to the Houthis.
The Houthi movement, which controls large parts of northern Yemen including the capital Sanaa, has been engaged in conflict with Yemen's internationally recognized government and a Saudi led coalition since 2014. Over the past two years, ceasefire arrangements and diplomatic efforts have reduced some of the most intense fighting, even as the underlying political dispute over Yemen's future government remains unresolved. Saudi Arabia, which shares a long border with Yemen, has been a central player in these efforts and has engaged in direct talks with Houthi representatives in past years aimed at stabilizing the situation.
According to this weekend's reporting, Saudi Arabia is now seeking cooperation from Syria as part of its approach to the Houthi issue, a notable development given the diplomatic realignments that have taken place across the region in recent years. Separately, Yemen's government has publicly called on Iran to stop providing arms to the Houthis and to withdraw military advisers, a call that reflects the long standing concern among the Houthis' regional opponents that outside military support has helped sustain the group's capabilities.
Alongside these regional moves, President Trump said he considers it highly unlikely that the United States would order strikes on Iran if diplomatic talks continue to proceed, a comment that suggests Washington currently favors continued negotiation over military escalation in the broader dispute involving Iran's regional activities.
Watch for any formal response from Iran to Yemen's call, and for details on what cooperation Saudi Arabia and Syria might pursue regarding the Houthis.
Who are the Houthis?
A movement that controls large parts of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, and has been in conflict with Yemen's internationally recognized government since 2014.
Is the United States planning military action against Iran?
President Trump indicated it is highly unlikely the US would order strikes on Iran as long as diplomatic talks continue to proceed.