Saudi Arabia’s role in the Yemen crisis

Abstract

The Saudi war in Yemen is the signature policy initiative of the Kingdom’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudis were alarmed by the rapid Houthi advances in 2015, fearing Iran was acquiring a proxy ally on their southern border. The reckless decision to intervene has created a humanitarian catastrophe for Yemenis and an expensive strategic quagmire for the Saudis. The Saudis have enjoyed the support of two American Presidents, which has protected them from potential international costs. The Crown Prince has stifled all dissent, including killing Jamal Khashoggi. The Congress is determined to limit US support for the war and a crisis in Saudi Arabia’s ties with Washington is coming.