The unusual appeal from Saudi Arabia: Bin Salman's indirect message to Israel

A report on an indirect appeal by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Israel, through the US Central Command, requesting intelligence and other assistance against the Houthi threat to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The appeal reveals the depth of Riyadh's distress and creates a bargaining chip for Israel to restore freedom of navigation to Eilat.

A report on an unusual indirect appeal by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Israel, through the US Central Command (CENTCOM), requesting intelligence and other assistance against the Houthi threat to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The appeal comes against the backdrop of US President Trump's reluctance to authorize direct strikes in Yemen, leaving Saudi Arabia in distress against Houthi attacks on the Saudi oil pipeline and shipping routes in the Red Sea. According to the report, which has no official confirmation from Israel or Saudi Arabia, the appeal provides the first practical expression of the common interest between the countries: Israel needs a safe route to restore shipping to Eilat, and Saudi Arabia needs safe export and trade routes. For Israel, this could form the basis for a broader diplomatic move regarding freedom of navigation, also involving Egypt, the US, and European countries affected by the threat. The article notes that now the political echelon must decide whether to change course and answer open questions regarding responsibility for restoring shipping to Eilat, the alternatives presented, and whether the contacts with Saudi Arabia and the US are translating into policy.