Saudis 'reveal plan' of Israel for war with Houthis - assessment

A Saudi source denied expectations that Riyadh would soften its position on normalization with Israel in exchange for help in fighting the Houthis. The kingdom does not consider a large-scale military operation optimal and advocates a strategic approach with international involvement. Saudi Arabia links normalization to the resolution of the Palestinian issue.

A Saudi source familiar with the kingdom's position denied expectations that Riyadh would be willing to soften its stance on normalizing relations with Israel in exchange for Israeli assistance in fighting the Houthis. The source stated that these expectations are not accurate. The kingdom does not consider a large-scale military operation against the Houthis optimal and advocates a strategic approach with international involvement. Saudi Arabia links normalization of relations with Israel primarily to the resolution of the Palestinian issue, not to mediation by third parties or current circumstances. Former head of Israel's National Security Council Eyal Hulata noted that cooperation between Jerusalem and Riyadh could expand significantly if a full normalization agreement is reached. He also pointed to Saudi Arabia's interest in closer ties with Israel amid deepening cooperation between Jerusalem and the UAE. Earlier, contacts between Israel and Saudi Arabia were reported through the mediation of the US Central Command, focusing on possible intelligence support for Riyadh in the fight against the Houthis. Israel views the situation as concerning but does not plan to intervene unless the group directly strikes the country.