Yemen’s Houthi movement has reportedly agreed not to engage in hostilities against the United States, according to statements made by former President Donald Trump. Speaking during a recent interview, Trump said that Washington remains "in constant communication with the Houthis" and that they have expressed a willingness to avoid conflict with US forces.
Trump made similar assertions earlier this month during a visit to Ireland, noting that the Iran-aligned group had contacted the United States to indicate they did not want to provoke direct confrontation. These remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, as the Houthis have intensified their offensive operations against Saudi Arabia, a close US ally.
On September 19, the Houthi movement launched a missile attack targeting Riyadh, the Saudi capital, further raising concerns about the ongoing conflict. Concurrently, the group has expanded its territorial control within Yemen, advancing against the internationally recognized government supported by Riyadh.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran. On February 28, US and Israeli forces conducted extensive aerial strikes against Iranian targets, initiating a months-long standoff that continues to shape regional dynamics. Trump indicated he is currently deliberating on how to respond to Iran’s actions, suggesting that decisive measures may be forthcoming.
“They better behave,” Trump said, hinting at the possibility of further military action against Iran. He described the ongoing situation as being in a “deciding mode,” with plans for “big things” to occur in the near future.
While the Houthis’ commitment to avoid engaging US forces may reduce the risk of a broader confrontation, their continued hostilities toward Saudi Arabia indicate that the conflict in Yemen remains volatile. The developments underscore the complex entanglement of local and international interests in the region, with the US balancing efforts to contain Iranian influence while supporting its Gulf allies.