Netanyahu seeks Saudi approval for direct Israeli role in anti-Houthi operations

Prime Minister Netanyahu has initiated diplomatic overtures to Saudi Arabia seeking permission for Israeli forces to conduct direct military operations against Houthi targets, according to reports emerging from the Middle East. The request represents a significant escalation in Israel's role in the ongoing regional conflict, as previous involvement has been limited or conducted through indirect channels.

The Houthis, a Yemen-based militant group backed by Iran, have intensified attacks on commercial shipping and regional targets in recent months. Saudi Arabia, which leads a coalition conducting military operations in Yemen, has been central to coordinating regional responses to these threats. Israel's bid to join such operations directly would require explicit Saudi authorization, given Riyadh's strategic position and its concern about regional stability.

The diplomatic initiative underscores deepening security coordination between Israel and Gulf Arab states, though public Saudi endorsement of direct Israeli military action remains politically sensitive. The kingdom must balance its security interests against domestic and regional pressures regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

No official statement from Saudi authorities confirming or denying the report has been issued. The development comes amid heightened tensions across the Middle East and reflects shifting strategic alignments as regional powers confront shared security challenges from non-state actors and Iranian-aligned forces.