Recent developments suggest that the United States has initiated discussions with the Iran-backed militia known as the Houthis, also referred to as Ansar Allah. This engagement comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is grappling with renewed aggression from the Houthis in Yemen. With reports indicating that the US may have reached some form of accord with this militia, concerns are mounting regarding Riyadh’s ability to navigate this significant challenge largely on its own.

Last week, the Houthis executed a sudden offensive that saw them make swift gains along Yemen’s Red Sea coastline, seizing control of several islands vital for Saudi oil shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Meanwhile, Houthi drone and missile strikes have continued to threaten major Saudi cities and their energy infrastructure, even triggering civil defence alarms in Mecca.

Despite intense military efforts by Saudi forces to reclaim territory lost to the Houthis, including repeated air strikes that have failed to yield success, Riyadh’s allies have shown hesitance to engage in direct military involvement. Both Pakistan and Turkey, members of the Mecca Defence Alliance, have explicitly ruled out any combat operations in Yemen, while the US and UK have declined requests to support air operations against Houthi positions.

US and Houthi Meeting in Oman Sparks Speculation

Reports from news agency Reuters reveal that a meeting between US officials and Houthi representatives took place in Muscat, Oman, over the weekend of September 16. This gathering was reportedly facilitated by Oman, a recognised mediator in regional conflicts. During discussions, the Houthis conveyed their commitment to the ceasefire established in 2025 with the US, claiming they would refrain from targeting American vessels, while simultaneously indicating their intention to strike Saudi shipping in the Red Sea.

Notable members of the Houthi delegation included senior officials such as Mohammad Abdulsalam, who is currently under US sanctions, and Abdelmalik al-Ajiri. Following the meeting, US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged ongoing negotiations, asserting that Washington is in direct conversations with the Houthis and is monitoring the evolving situation closely.

Though Vice President Vance confirmed negotiations, the absence of formal announcements from either side leaves uncertainty as to whether an official deal has been established. Nonetheless, indications suggest a potential understanding that could alter the tactical environment for both the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.

Implications for Saudi Arabia and Regional Stability

The US has traditionally regarded the Houthis as adversaries, having designated them a “foreign terrorist organisation” as of March 2025. Previously, the US conducted bombing campaigns targeting Houthi weapon stores and missile facilities after the group threatened maritime security in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. However, the current landscape appears changed, particularly as the US is engaged in heightened tensions with Iran and thus may lack the military capacity to resume extensive operations against the Houthis.

A recent statement from a State Department spokesperson emphasised America’s core interest in maintaining free navigation in the Red Sea. The emergence of a possible understanding with the Houthis could stem from these interests, particularly if it guarantees the safety of vessels, excluding those linked to Saudi Arabia. Such developments could leave Saudi Arabia increasingly isolated, attempting to address a dual threat of Houthi aggression and limited support from allies.

The implications of this situation are significant, as Saudi Arabia’s armed forces have encountered difficulties in curtailing Houthi advances despite numerous retaliatory air strikes. With international allies, including the US and neighbouring Muslim nations, exhibiting reluctance to intervene directly, Riyadh faces the grim prospect of having to confront the Houthis without substantial support.

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