Overnight airstrikes in Yemen have raised concerns in Saudi Arabia, which seeks de-escalation in its war-ravaged neighbor to shift focus towards domestic reforms, according to analysts.
The United States and Britain carried out the strikes, targeting over 100 locations with precision-guided munitions in response to disruptive attacks on Red Sea shipping by the Iran-backed Huthis.
Saudi Arabia, which has been leading an anti-Huthi coalition since 2015, is now aiming for a ceasefire and military withdrawal from Yemen.
The Saudi foreign ministry expressed "great concern" and called for restraint as the nation grapples with balancing public opinion, security concerns in the Red Sea, and the desire to deter further Huthi attacks.
The recent escalation complicates Saudi Arabia's foreign policy goal of ending military operations in Yemen, which is crucial for its Vision 2030 reform agenda.
The Red Sea coast plays a key role in this vision, with plans for resorts to boost tourism. Despite hopes for progress, Huthi attacks on ships passing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait have posed challenges.
The US-led maritime security initiative, Operation Prosperity Guardian, aims to secure the Red Sea, but Saudi Arabia has not joined, reflecting its delicate position amid peace talks with Yemen.
The evolving Israel-Hamas conflict and Red Sea crisis further complicate Saudi Arabia's stance as leaders consider public opinion and navigate concerns about double standards in US. actions.
President Joe Biden's statement on potential future measures raises the spectre of more strikes and increased risks for Saudi entanglement, causing growing concern.
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