Trump Delays Houthi Strikes After Days of Mixed Signals
What Happened
Donald Trump reportedly shifted positions multiple times on whether to launch airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Yemen. According to reports citing US officials, Trump initially opposed military action, later directed the Pentagon to prepare strikes after a call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and then reversed course again, putting the operation on hold. Military preparations had reportedly advanced to the point where target lists were approved and bombs were being loaded onto aircraft.
Key Takeaways
The episode underscores divisions within the US administration over opening another military front while the US remains heavily engaged in tensions linked to Iran. For now, Washington appears focused on supporting Saudi Arabia through intelligence and defence cooperation rather than direct intervention against the Houthis.