Trump Declines Saudi Request to Strike Yemen’s Houthis, Axios Reports

President Donald Trump declined a request from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to launch U.S. strikes against Yemen’s Houthis as the group advanced toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, Axios reported.

The crown prince spoke with Trump twice on Thursday, September 10, seeking American military action against the Houthi forces, according to the report.

U.S. to Provide Intelligence and Targeting Data

Washington will instead provide Saudi Arabia with intelligence on the Houthis and targeting data, Axios reported. The planned assistance falls short of the direct U.S. strikes sought by Riyadh.

The White House and the Saudi embassy in Washington declined to comment to Axios.

Why the Bab al-Mandab Strait Matters

The Houthi advance has drawn attention to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a strategic shipping passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.

The waterway is important for international trade and energy shipments traveling through the Suez Canal. Disruption could force vessels to take longer routes around southern Africa, increasing journey times and shipping costs.