Saudi Arabia seeks Israeli intelligence help against Houthis

Saudi Arabia has sought intelligence assistance from Israel to counter Yemen’s Houthi forces, according to Israeli and Middle Eastern media reports, with discussions reportedly facilitated by the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

The Jerusalem Post, Walla and Israel Hayom, citing diplomatic and regional sources, reported that the talks focused on intelligence about Houthi military positions, deployments and potential future operations.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor Israel has officially confirmed the reports.

The reports come as Houthi attacks targeting Saudi territory and energy infrastructure have reportedly increased.

Israeli media have cited drone strikes on Saudi oil pipelines and pumping facilities, including disruption to operations along a key pipeline.

Saudi Arabia has also sought US assistance against the Houthis.

Reuters reported that Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman asked US President Donald Trump for help in countering the group.

Washington has not agreed to direct military action but has offered intelligence-sharing and assistance in identifying potential targets, according to two sources cited by Reuters.

CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper subsequently visited Saudi Arabia and met Mohammed bin Salman, with the two discussing Houthi activity in Yemen and regional security, Reuters reported.

The reported Saudi-Israeli discussions come amid renewed concerns over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a strategic Red Sea passage linking major global shipping routes. Houthi attacks or increased control of strategic areas along Yemen’s Red Sea coast could disrupt shipping and affect regional energy flows and international trade.

Israel Hayom reported that Saudi Arabia was considering Israel’s capabilities in countering Houthi missiles, rockets and drones. However, no details have emerged publicly about any concrete Israeli assistance.

Saudi Arabia and Israel have yet to announce any formal military cooperation against the Houthis, and the reported discussions remain based largely on diplomatic and regional sources.