September 20, 2026 | WSJ Letter to the Editor
What Is Saudi Arabia’s Plan for the Houthis?
Riyadh must clarify whether it seeks de-escalation or a decisive military response—and if the latter, what kind.
September 20, 2026 | WSJ Letter to the Editor
What Is Saudi Arabia’s Plan for the Houthis?
Riyadh must clarify whether it seeks de-escalation or a decisive military response—and if the latter, what kind.
Excerpt
Your editorial “Who Will Stop the Houthis?” (Sept. 16) is right to note that a successful operation against the Houthis will almost certainly rely on another Saudi-led coalition and that American support will be indispensable. However, the first problem before the Saudis isn’t figuring out who will partner with them but rather articulating what they want.
Saudi Arabia has incurred extensive damage. Iran-backed Iraqi militia attacks forced the closure of its East-West pipeline while the Houthis continue to target the country’s energy infrastructure and civilian sites. Riyadh even said the Houthis launched a drone at Mecca. The kingdom needs to decide if it will seek de-escalation in hopes of ensuring quiet on its southern border or if its red lines have truly been crossed, necessitating a strong military response.
Bridget Toomey is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, focusing on Iranian proxies, specifically Iraqi militias and the Houthis.