Former senior CIA official and military analyst Scott Ullinger stated that the US finds itself in a difficult position after the Houthi advances, and Riyadh may be forced to reconcile with Iran if Washington fails to support Saudi Arabia. The Houthis are Iran's most effective proxy force, having repeatedly withstood attacks from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the US. Therefore, I believe this puts Washington in a predicament; if they don't assist Saudi Arabia on this matter, Saudi Arabia, facing a significant reduction in oil exports, may feel compelled to reconcile with Iran for its own benefit, which I think the US wants to avoid. The cancellation of Monday's meeting in Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz is a key signal. This may actually be because the US requested a postponement to consult with Saudi Arabia and reach an agreement on future course of action. Washington fears that without support, Saudi Arabia might seek a deal with Iran to offset its shrinking oil exports.
