CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Amid rising military activity by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, direct talks have taken place in Oman between the United States and Houthi representatives. The talks were held at a time when Houthi fighters have strengthened their position across large parts of Yemen’s Red Sea coast and have threatened to target Saudi-linked ships and facilities.
According to reports, at the meeting in Muscat, Houthi representatives assured the United States that the 2025 ceasefire could be maintained and that they had no plan to target American ships. The talks also covered maintaining navigation arrangements in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. However, there has so far been no official confirmation of any formal agreement between the United States and the Houthis. US officials have only confirmed direct contact and talks with the Houthis.
The development could have a direct impact on Saudi Arabia’s position. Fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed Yemeni forces is intensifying. The Houthis’ growing presence around Bab al-Mandeb is increasing concerns for Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea oil export routes. A significant share of global trade passes through the strait.
For now, the United States has kept its distance from joining any direct military operation against the Houthis. According to reports, Washington’s primary interest is to maintain freedom of navigation for American and international ships in the Red Sea. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, is having to work on military and diplomatic options at its own level to deal with Houthi attacks.
The impact is also being seen on oil supplies and maritime security. Despite the recent tensions, oil prices fell on Friday, as Saudi Arabia’s efforts to restore oil supplies eased some market concerns.
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