- Saudi Arabia is preparing a major military offensive against Houthis by sea and land to secure oil exports through the Red Sea.
- Saudi forces withdraw from eastern Yemen, possibly for a land offensive, while Riyadh organizes a naval coalition to protect Red Sea shipping.
- 14 states including Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt support a multinational maritime defense coalition.
- Houthis announced a blockade on Saudi ships, linking its removal to Saudi lifting its Yemen blockade.
- Riyadh seeks US and European support for Red Sea coalition; EU already has Aspides mission operational.
- Houthis claim to have hit sensitive Saudi oil transport sites; Red Sea closure would severely constrain Saudi oil exports.
- Saudi strikes in Iraq kill 20; Saudi defense minister meets Trump and Vance to discuss next steps, avoiding escalation with Iran.
- Troop movements in Yemen focus on al-Bayda for a potential attack; fighting intensifies with Houthi attacks on Aramco facilities.
- Tensions could ease if Gulf states and Iran reach an agreement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.