World News
US offers intelligence to Saudi Arabia as Houthis advance near Bab al-Mandeb
Washington is withholding direct military strikes despite reported appeals from Riyadh after recent rebel territorial gains.
The short version
- Houthi forces seized key areas along the Bab al-Mandeb strait, including the coastal town of Dhubab and Perim Island, after taking Mocha.[Al Jazeera]
- The Trump administration is withholding direct military action against the Houthis, choosing instead to provide intelligence and targeting assistance to Saudi Arabia.[ABC News]
- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged President Donald Trump to carry out military strikes, though Saudi circles have denied specific reports of such requests.[Fox News · Al Jazeera]
- US Central Command leader Admiral Brad Cooper traveled to Saudi Arabia for urgent coordination discussions.[Al Jazeera]
Key facts
- Houthi forces completed their takeover of Dhubab and Perim Island following the capture of Mocha.[Fox News · Al Jazeera]
- The Trump administration has no current plans for direct military strikes against the Houthis and is instead offering intelligence and targeting aid to Saudi Arabia.[Fox News · ABC News]
- Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, traveled to Saudi Arabia for urgent coordination discussions.[Fox News · ABC News · Al Jazeera]
- Donald Trump stated on September 12, 2026, that the Houthis contacted the US indicating they do not want to fight and are permitting ships to pass.[Al Jazeera]
What remains uncertain
- Whether Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directly requested US military strikes against the Houthis remains disputed, as Saudi circles denied specific reports detailing the phone calls.[Fox News · Al Jazeera]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.