Riyadh faces limited options against Yemeni rebels, backed by Iran, due to weak air defenses and lack of U.S. support.
Riyadh faces limited options in Yemen
Saudi Arabia is finding it increasingly difficult to counter the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are backed by Iran. The situation is complicated by the lack of significant U.S. military support and the kingdom’s limited air defense systems.Iran’s role in the conflict
Iran has been providing military and financial support to the Houthi group, which has been fighting the Saudi-led coalition since 2015. This backing has strengthened the rebels' position and made them a more formidable opponent for Saudi Arabia.U.S. support has declined
The United States, once a key ally of Saudi Arabia, has reduced its military involvement in the region. This shift has left Riyadh without the airpower and intelligence support it previously relied on to conduct effective military operations against the rebels.Saudi air defenses are limited
Despite being a major regional power, Saudi Arabia has struggled to develop robust air defense systems. This has made it vulnerable to Houthi drone and missile attacks, which have targeted critical infrastructure and military installations in recent years.
