In an analysis published by The Zioneer, Hananel Aviv writes that Iranian-backed Iraqi Shiite militias are now joining the Houthis in attacking Saudi oil targets, escalating the regional conflict. Aviv argues that Saudi Arabia's dual strategy of avoiding confrontation with Iran while distancing from the UAE is failing, and that the pressure on global oil supplies is increasing.
Israeli analyst Hananel Aviv, writing for The Zioneer, assesses that the strategic landscape has shifted as Iranian-backed Iraqi Shiite militias have joined Houthi forces in striking Saudi oil targets. According to Aviv, this development marks a failure of Saudi Arabia's dual strategy of de-escalation with Iran while maintaining distance from the United Arab Emirates' more confrontational approach. The analysis warns that the pressure on global energy supplies is intensifying, noting that the Houthis effectively control the Bab el-Mandeb strait, which could become a leverage point similar to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Aviv argues that the Trump administration's postponement of a 'powerful attack' will not hold, and that the involvement of Iraqi militias signals that the next confrontation between the U.S. and Iran is imminent. He characterizes the Iranian-led axis as engaged in a jihad against both Israel and the United States, as well as against Sunni Arab states that allow American and Israeli footholds.
The Zioneer has previously reported on the Houthi threat to Red Sea shipping and the deepening IRGC-Houthi nexus, as well as on Iran's threats to close maritime chokepoints. Aviv's analysis represents a view from within the Israeli analytical community that the regional war is expanding beyond the immediate Israeli-Iranian theater.
- StrongHouthi leader warns Saudi oil facilities targeted if Riyadh joins 'comprehensive aggression' against Yemen
- DevelopingHouthis reportedly attacked two Saudi oil tankers in Gulf of Aden, Israel Hayom says
- DevelopingSaudi Arabia takes Iran, Houthi threats 'very seriously,' regional sources say
- StrongSaudi demand for Iraqi sovereignty faces militia indifference, NYT and analyst report
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