Trump rejects Saudi request for US airstrikes against Houthi forces

On Thursday, September 10, 2026, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held two phone conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump, requesting immediate U.S. airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. The request followed the capture of a strategic coastal city by the Houthi movement, which brought the insurgent group closer to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital chokepoint for global oil exports.

President Trump rejected the appeal for direct military intervention. According to U.S. government sources cited by Axios, Washington currently has no intention of launching a military offensive against the Iranian-backed group, preferring instead to provide Saudi Arabia with intelligence and targeting data. The developments have caused significant unease in international markets, leading to an increase in global oil prices.

The conflict arises from growing concerns that the Houthis, supported by Iran, are positioning themselves to control key maritime trade routes. While the Saudi leadership views this as an urgent security threat, the U.S. administration aims to avoid opening a second military front in the region. There are no reports of further planned escalation by the U.S. at this time, though the situation remains volatile.