Growing Concerns of Middle East Conflict Escalation as Houthis Target Ships in Red Sea

Saudi Arabia has reportedly urged the United States to exercise restraint in responding to attacks by Yemen's Houthis against ships in the Red Sea, as Riyadh seeks to contain spillover from the Hamas-Israel war. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have been attacking vessels in vital shipping lanes and firing drones and missiles at Israel. Riyadh is concerned about the escalation of the conflict and has expressed satisfaction with the US response so far. The Saudi government is focused on promoting regional stability and advancing the Yemen peace process, even as the war in Gaza continues. The Houthi attacks are seen as an effort to pressure Washington to get Israel to halt the Gaza offensive.