US President Donald Trump said Saturday he is considering airstrikes against the Houthi militia in Yemen following a fourth attack on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport in a week. Speaking at the White House, Trump indicated the United States may act "very quickly" in response to the attacks, which have killed four people and injured dozens. The attacks, which occurred within a week, have prompted Trump to reassess US involvement in the region.
Trump told reporters he had just learned about the latest attack and would make a decision soon. The US is currently evaluating whether to join Saudi-led strikes against the Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran. The attacks on the Saudi airport have intensified calls for a military response, with Trump emphasizing the need for a swift decision.
This marks a significant shift in US policy toward the Yemen conflict. Previously, the US had avoided direct military involvement, focusing instead on supporting Saudi Arabia's efforts. However, the frequency of attacks on Saudi infrastructure has raised concerns about regional stability. Trump's potential involvement would signal a more active US role in the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Yemen has been complicated by the involvement of multiple regional and international actors. The Houthi rebels, who control large parts of the country, have been accused of targeting civilian infrastructure, including airports and hospitals. The US has previously expressed concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict but has not taken direct military action.
The recent attacks have reignited discussions about the US's strategic interests in the Middle East. With tensions between the US and Russia also escalating, Trump's potential military action in Yemen could have broader geopolitical implications. The decision will likely be influenced by both regional security concerns and domestic political pressures.
