Why Trump Chooses to Avoid a New War Against the Houthis: Analysts Weigh In

US President Donald Trump currently appears to be choosing not to launch further attacks against the Houth formation in Yemen. This stance has drawn significant attention, particularly amidst attacks by the group against Saudi Arabia and their threats to shipping and trade in the Red Sea.

However, Nahathal Tosi, a senior foreign affairs correspondent for the US news site Politico, as cited by Al Jazeera, suggests that this cautious approach is driven by several practical, military, and political reasons. These factors may explain why Washington is reluctant to open a new front against the Houthis.

Nevertheless, Tosi warns that Trump’s stance may not be permanent, noting that Trump is known for frequently changing his policies abruptly.

One primary reason is that Trump is already facing a highly complex front with Iran. According to Tosi, the conflict with Tehran has not truly concluded. Therefore, initiating a new confrontation with the Houthis—who receive support and weaponry from Iran—carries the potential to expand the scope of the conflict at a time when the war with Iran itself has yet to find a resolution.

The article also quotes former US special envoy to Yemen, Tim Lenderking, who assesses that it is understandable why Trump does not wish to open another front at this time.