Wary of Houthis, Gulf states fear blowback of US escalation in Yemen
The Houthis' identification with the Gaza conflict has also made it complicated for Gulf states to participate in operations against the group.
DUBAI — Gulf states, long on the receiving end of Houthi attacks that have disrupted maritime navigation, are not publicly objecting to the latest US military escalation against the Yemeni group. However, they fear potential blowback if the campaign escalates further without deterring the attacks.
The offensive saw the Trump administration authorize heavy strikes on the Iran-backed group, leaving 53 dead, including five children.
US Central Command launched a series of operations against Houthi targets in Yemen to "defend American interests, deter enemies, and restore freedom of navigation," according to its statement on the X platform.
In a post on social media, US President Donald Trump vowed to "use overwhelming lethal force" to end the Houthi attacks, which the rebels have launched in solidarity with Palestinians since the war in the Gaza Strip.
