JERUSALEM / RIYADH — Israel is providing intelligence support to Saudi Arabia to help the kingdom respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement, also known as Ansarullah, according to The Jerusalem Post, citing Israeli outlet Walla and regional diplomatic sources.
Intelligence Cooperation Through CENTCOM
The reported talks between Israeli and Saudi security officials were mediated by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM). Saudi Arabia reportedly sought intelligence that could help it better understand Houthi military deployments and identify possible plans for future operations.
The reported cooperation comes despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia
The intelligence discussions come as Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia have intensified.
Recent attacks have included:
- Oil infrastructure: A drone attack targeted oil pipelines and pumping facilities, resulting in a partial shutdown of activity along the main pipeline.
- Border-area attacks: Houthi forces also carried out an attack affecting civilians at a mosque and nearby buildings close to the Yemen-Saudi border.
- Missile and drone attacks: Houthi forces have continued attacks against Saudi targets, increasing pressure on the kingdom’s defenses.
Houthi Advances Along the Red Sea
Houthi forces have also expanded their position along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. They have captured the port city of Mocha (Mokha), Perim Island (Mayyun Island) in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Greater and Lesser Hanish Islands further north.
These developments have given the Houthis positions along much of Yemen’s western coastline and near the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Saudi Arabia Seeks International Assistance
Saudi Arabia has sought support from other countries as the security situation has worsened.
Bloomberg reported that Riyadh asked Britain for assistance in countering the Houthis near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and protecting its oil infrastructure. Britain agreed to send military advisers, although it has not committed to additional military assistance.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has also appealed for regional support amid setbacks faced by Saudi-backed forces in Yemen.
The approach to Israel was reportedly made indirectly through CENTCOM. The United States has provided intelligence-sharing and advisory support but has not conducted direct strikes, according to the reports.
No Official Confirmation
The developments come as concerns grow over security around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key maritime route connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and an important route for Saudi oil exports.
Israel and Saudi Arabia do not have formal diplomatic relations. The Jerusalem Post reported the Israeli-Saudi discussions on September 15, but no official Israeli or Saudi statement confirming the reported intelligence cooperation was detailed in the initial reporting.
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