Why Trump isn’t going to war with the Houthis
Summary
BBC senior correspondent Nawal Al-Maghafi joins Asma Khalid to analyze the escalating conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, who recently launched deadly attacks on Riyadh. The discussion explores why the U.S. is reluctant to join the fight despite its historical alliance with Saudi Arabia, noting that Washington is currently limiting its role to defensive support. Al-Maghafi also shares on-the-ground reporting from Ta’ez, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis and the strategic challenges facing both the Yemeni government and the Houthis in this decade-long war.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and show introduction
Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and US response
Introduction of correspondent Noelle El-McAfee
Timeline of recent Houthi strikes on Riyadh
Saudi Arabia's strategic dilemma in the conflict
Who are the Houthis and their relationship with Iran
Historical US-Saudi security partnership
Evolution of US policy from Obama to Biden
Houthi regrouping and control of shipping chokepoints
Sponsor break: Charles Schwab
On-the-ground reporting from Ta'ez, Yemen
Why the Houthis feel emboldened by US inaction
Saudi limitations and the need for long-term strategy
Closing remarks and production credits
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