The Houthis announced on 27/7/2025 that they will target merchant ships of any company conducting business with Israeli ports, regardless of their nationality, as part of what they have termed the next phase of their operations against Israel.
In this regard, Saudi Arabia is taking the Houthi threats seriously.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) has also reacted to Houthi threats.
The note provides an overview of the following aspects:
- Saudi Arabia’s actions following the Houthi statement
- MBS' reaction to the Houthi emerging threats
- His priorities towards de-escalating tensions in the region
- Saudi concerns over the Red Sea security and the U.S.-Houthi truce
- Advanced weapons introduced by the Houthis
- The Pentagon's position on engaging the Houthis militarily, as perceived by Riyadh
