The Houthi rebels say they will no longer attack American ships, but warn that Saudi Arabia remains a target

The Houthi group claims that the United States contacted it following its rapid offensive in western Yemen and its approach to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Mohamed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the group’s political bureau, stated that the Houthis do not intend to attack the US or other countries in the region, with the exception of Saudi Arabia. He warned that the situation could change if other countries become militarily involved on Riyadh’s side.

The statements come after reports that Donald Trump had allegedly prepared strikes against Houthi positions, following a discussion with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The operation was reportedly postponed or canceled before the attacks began. The White House has not confirmed the information, but Trump previously acknowledged that Washington had held talks with the group.

In recent weeks, the Houthis have taken positions along the Red Sea coast and near Bab el-Mandeb, a strategic route between the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Suez Canal. Saudi Arabia has intensified its airstrikes, while the group responded with missiles and drones targeting Riyadh and several sites in Yanbu. The escalation risks affecting international commercial and energy transport.

Read also The US Embassy issued an alert and urged all American citizens to leave Iran immediately