Saudi Arabia’s security needs expose limits of diplomacy, give Israel an opportunity - analysis

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman faces a security crisis as Houthi attacks expose the limits of his diplomatic strategy. Despite alliances with the US, Turkey, and Pakistan, Riyadh struggles to secure military intervention. The Houthis threaten Saudi economic foundations, targeting energy infrastructure and shipping routes, undermining Vision 2030.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman faces a major security crisis as Houthi attacks expose the limits of his diplomatic strategy. Twice in early September, bin Salman asked US President Donald Trump to attack the Houthis; Trump refused, offering only intelligence. Ten days later, a planned US strike was halted at the last moment. Saudi Arabia returned to bombing Yemen without solving the problem. Britain sent a refueling aircraft; Turkey and Pakistan expressed support but did not enter the war. The reconciliation with Iran, mediated by China three and a half years ago, failed to stop the Houthis. The Mecca defense agreement with Turkey and Pakistan has not brought military intervention. The Houthis threaten Saudi economic foundations: on September 11, drones struck three pumping stations on the East-West Pipeline, halting oil flows. The Houthis also announced a naval boycott against Saudi shipping, forcing reroutes through the Suez Canal. The crisis undermines Vision 2030, which depends on stability and foreign investment. The article frames this as an opportunity for Israel, highlighting its intelligence and defense role.