Saudi Arabia Prepares Sea and Land Offensive Against Houthis 2026

Saudi Arabia is preparing for a major military offensive against the Houthis by sea and possibly by land in central Yemen, according to Yemeni sources, in a move to break the chokehold on its oil exports through the southern Red Sea. This escalation comes as Riyadh seeks to protect its vital shipping lanes from continued attacks.

Strategic Context of the Saudi-Houthi Conflict

The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control Yemen's capital Sana'a and much of its Red Sea coastline, have announced a blockade against Saudi ships, threatening the kingdom's oil exports. Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015 to support the UN-recognized government, but the conflict has since evolved into a regional proxy struggle.

Riyadh has withdrawn forces from eastern Yemen, possibly to reposition for a land offensive, while simultaneously organizing a naval coalition to protect shipping. The Saudi defense ministry reported that 14 states, including Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, Sudan, and Djibouti, have issued a joint statement supporting a multinational maritime defense coalition.

Key Developments in the Red Sea

The Houthis have denied planning to impose tolls on all ships, stating they will lift the blockade once Saudi Arabia lifts its blockade on Yemen. However, on July 25, Houthi forces claimed they hit “sensitive” oil transport sites inside Saudi Arabia, linking eastern province oilfields to a Red Sea export hub.

If the Red Sea route is closed to Saudi shipping, in addition to the Strait of Hormuz blockade on the other side of the Arabian peninsula, the kingdom's oil exports could be severely constrained. Up to 80% of Saudi crude exports were shipped through the Strait of Hormuz before the crisis.

International Response and Coalition Efforts

Saudi Arabia has asked the US and European countries including Germany, France, the UK, and Italy to join a Red Sea coalition. The EU already operates a naval protection mission, Aspides, in the region, but it remains unclear if the Houthis are mounting a general blockade or one targeted solely at Saudi Arabia.

Potential Impact on Oil Exports

The Red Sea is a critical artery for global oil trade, and any disruption could have far-reaching consequences. Saudi Arabia's ability to export oil through the Bab al-Mandab strait is essential for its economy and global energy markets.

• Up to 80% of Saudi crude exports transit the Strait of Hormuz, but Red Sea routes are also vital.
• A closure of both routes would severely constrain Saudi oil exports.
• Houthi attacks have already targeted oil transport sites inside Saudi Arabia.

FAQ

As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation that ensures stable energy supplies and regional security.