As the regional effects of the conflict in Yemen continue, US President Donald Trump delayed a decision on Saudi Arabia’s request for support for airstrikes against the Houthis, US officials said.
According to US officials, Trump told his advisers that he was not inclined to launch an attack against the Houthis one day before his phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The officials said he changed his position after the call.
Trump at one point instructed the US Department of Defense to prepare for airstrikes against the Houthis, but decided on Sunday that no attack should be carried out at this stage, officials said.
Attacks targeting Saudi Arabia
The Houthis have recently targeted Saudi-owned vessels in the region’s maritime routes and several locations inside the country. The attacks, which also included strikes on airports and energy production facilities, caused civilian deaths and material damage.
The course of the conflict in Yemen
Saudi Arabia has led a coalition supporting the Yemeni government since March 2015. The Houthis, who are accused of receiving support from Iran, have controlled the capital, Sanaa, and parts of Yemen since September 2014.