Report: Saudi Arabia preparing naval and ground operation to break Houthi maritime blockade

The Guardian reports that Saudi Arabia is concentrating forces for a naval maneuver and possible extensive ground operation in central Yemen to break the Houthi blockade on Red Sea oil exports. Riyadh is also establishing a 14-nation maritime coalition in coordination with the US and Western countries. The Saudi defense minister, who met at the White House, said Riyadh prefers a diplomatic response with Iran and does not seek regional escalation, according to the report.

The Guardian reported on Friday that Saudi Arabia is preparing a large-scale military operation against the Houthi movement in Yemen, including a naval maneuver and a potential ground offensive in central Yemen, aimed at breaking the Houthi maritime blockade on Red Sea oil exports. The report adds that Riyadh is establishing a 14-nation maritime coalition in coordination with the United States and Western countries, while the Saudi defense minister met at the White House to discuss the situation. According to the report, the minister emphasized that Riyadh prefers a diplomatic track with Iran and does not seek regional escalation.

This follows a report earlier today (Fri 09:48) that Saudi Arabia was preparing a ground invasion of Yemen. The new Guardian report adds a naval dimension and details of the coalition formation.

The development comes amid ongoing Houthi attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure and a sustained campaign of maritime strikes, as The Zioneer has documented. The Houthis have declared an end to their ceasefire with Saudi Arabia and imposed a maritime blockade, disrupting global trade through the Red Sea.

5 developments

1. 45 minutes ago · 10:52 · 31 JulLatest

   The Guardian reports Saudi forces are concentrating for the operation.

2. 10:51 · 31 Jul

   Saudi forces concentrating in Al-Bayda governorate for potential offensive.

3. 10:25 · 31 Jul

   Saudi Arabia reportedly preparing ground invasion to break Houthi naval blockade.

• Developing16:42 · 16 JulSaudi Arabia prepares 'violent wave' of strikes against Houthis, warns of Iranian attack plans
• Strongyesterday · 23:45 · 29 JulSaudi Arabia reportedly working to establish international Red Sea coalition against Houthi attacks
• Developing17:29 · 16 JulReuters: Pakistan prepares to join fighting against Houthis in Yemen as regional tensions escalate
• Developing10:48 · 15 JulUnverified report: Pro-Saudi Yemeni forces moving toward Houthi territory ahead of attack

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