Saudi Crown Prince meets U.S. CENTCOM head amid Houthi advances

Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman met with Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), in Jeddah to discuss recent regional developments. While official details of the discussions were not released, the meeting comes amid heightened tensions caused by the military advancement of the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen.

The Houthis have expanded their control over strategic areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, including the coastal city of Mocha and several key islands such as Perim, Greater Hanish, and Lesser Hanish. This movement grants the group increased strategic dominance over the Red Sea, a vital maritime corridor for global trade and Saudi oil exports.

In response to the Houthi presence and attacks on Saudi southern regions—including strikes on energy facilities—Saudi Arabia has intensified airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, including the Mocha airport. The situation remains critical due to the potential impact on international shipping routes connecting the Indian Ocean to the Suez Canal.