Arab and Saudi leaderships emphasize prioritizing legitimate governments in their approach to regional security, focusing on preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Arab states. In a recent analysis, Kuwaiti writer Zaid Al-Jalawi outlined this strategy as one centered on protecting Arab national security against external and internal threats, particularly those linked to Iranian expansionism.

Al-Jalawi highlighted concerns over what has been described as a potential "New Zionist Middle East," characterized by the fragmentation of Arab states bordering Israel, facilitated through both direct and indirect cooperation with Tehran. This scenario, he argues, would undermine Arab stability and sovereignty. As part of this context, Saudi Arabia has publicly supported Yemen’s internationally recognized government, reinforcing efforts to maintain national unity and resist external influence.

While some groups within Yemen advocate for independence, Al-Jalawi contended that such aspirations should arise from internal consensus rather than external pressures or unilateral actions. He warned that prematurely pursuing separatist ambitions could destabilize Yemen, impacting its long-term cohesion. According to the analysis, factions aligned with Iran disregard regional boundaries, aiming instead to bring Yemen under Iranian influence, a pattern said to mirror similar movements in Iraq and elsewhere. These factions are accused of compromising national sovereignty through agreements that serve Tehran’s interests rather than those of their own countries or the broader Arab world.

The piece also stressed the importance of Arab nationalism, shaped by Islamic faith and territorial identity, distinguishing it from Islamist movements in non-Arab countries. Al-Jalawi asserts that while governments and political movements may differ, their Islamic character remains intact when defending state entities.

Regarding Yemen’s Houthi movement, described as a non-state armed group, the analysis predicted their inability to achieve broader popular or pan-Arab support, despite tactical gains. The movement’s expansion and Iranian backing, Al-Jalawi argued, have limited prospects for sustained territorial control. This assessment aligns with observed declines in Iranian influence in Syria, Lebanon, and the Palestinian issue.

The article concluded by emphasizing the adaptability of Arab governments in confronting evolving warfare tactics, citing experiences with fourth- and fifth-generation warfare. It stressed that any external actors attempting to influence Arab affairs through indirect routes—across Asian or African fronts—have repeatedly failed, underscoring Arab resilience based on a strong martial tradition and solidarity across the region.