Saudi Arabia has reportedly mobilized a large-scale war machine to launch a strategic offensive in Yemen. The objective is critical: recovering control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a global trade bottleneck currently held by the Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran.
Understanding Bab el-Mandeb
The Bab el-Mandeb (Arabic for "Gate of Tears") is a narrow strait connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. It is one of the most important shipping lanes in the world, as it serves as the primary route for oil and goods traveling between Asia and Europe via the Suez Canal.
The operation, which could potentially begin in the coming weeks, is not a simple deployment. According to reports, Riyadh is evaluating two distinct tactical scenarios:
Targeted Attack
A precise, surgical operation focused exclusively on the coastal area of the strait to minimize collateral damage and maximize efficiency.
Integral Offensive
A synchronized campaign encompassing the governorates of Al-Bayda, Marib, Taiz, and Al-Jawf for total regional control.
On the ground, the vanguard would be composed of Yemeni forces loyal to the internationally recognized government, under direct Saudi supervision. It is estimated that the mobilization could reach up to 100,000 soldiers, supported by an intense campaign of Saudi airstrikes.
| Country / Actor | Role in Operation | Specific Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Leadership & Command | Airstrikes and overall strategic supervision. |
| United States | Strategic Support | Military intelligence (over 200 targets identified). |
| Pakistan | Defense & Logistics | Drones, artillery, and up to 40,000 soldiers on the Saudi border. |
| Turkey | Technical Supply | Deployment of combat drones. |
| France | Port Security | Troops and defense systems for the city of Yanbu. |
On the diplomatic front, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly requested direct U.S. air intervention. Although the White House initially declined, President Donald Trump has allegedly left the door open for intervention should the operation encounter severe complications.
Source: IMAGO