Houthi shipping threat raises risk of new front in Iran conflict

The Iran-backed Houthi movement said it would prevent ships from loading or unloading at Saudi ports, threatening to disrupt Saudi oil exports equivalent to about 7% of global oil supply, Reuters reported.

Although Saudi Arabia has not requested U.S. military assistance, President Donald Trump said the U.S. would respond if the group interferes with shipping in the Red Sea.

Meanwhile, some U.S. officials are concerned that any Houthi attempt to disrupt Red Sea shipping linked to Saudi Arabia could open a new front in the ongoing conflict with Iran. Such a scenario would likely require the U.S. to divert naval and air assets toward Yemen, further straining U.S. personnel, warships, and stocks of munitions and air defense interceptors in the region, according to military experts.

The Houthis have demonstrated their resilience during years of Saudi-led military campaigns and continue to pose a threat to commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea. However, security analysts say the group could face growing logistical challenges as pressure on Iran limits its ability to provide support.

Earlier this week, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. has spent $37.5 billion on the war in Iran so far, as he sought additional funding for the conflict during testimony before U.S. lawmakers.