In a bold move, the Yemeni Houthis recently targeted two Israeli commercial ships, a US warship, and a UK ship, leaving a lingering question: why does no one dare to retaliate? The answer lies in the delicate balance of power surrounding Saudi Arabia’s oil rigs.
While NATO and Israel have a track record that raises eyebrows, the Houthis’ strategic restraint stems from the potential to disrupt the oil platforms in Saudi Arabia. A strike on these platforms could halt 9% of Europe’s oil and significantly impact global oil markets, triggering an unprecedented economic crisis in Europe.
More than hours have passed since the yemeni Houthis attacked 4 ships and still no one dares to touch them!
WHY????
Despite the ability of the US to crush Yemen, it remains an impractical option. The key lies in the evolution of Houthi capabilities. Once hampered by a lack of powerful missiles and kamikaze drones, recent successes reveal an advancement in their arsenal. A pivotal moment came in March 2022 when the Houthis, armed with more sophisticated weaponry, prompted Saudi Arabia to seek a truce with Iran after attacks on oil facilities.
The current scenario paints a different picture – Houthi missiles effortlessly reaching Israel, crossing paths with heavily armed US warships. This signals a significant upgrade in their capabilities, potentially allowing them to strike Saudi Arabia with newfound precision.
While the world may witness symbolic missile attacks on Yemen’s barren hills, a direct assault on Houthi military facilities seems unlikely. The global chessboard, intricately tied to Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves, dictates a cautious approach from major players like Israel and NATO. The balance of power in the volatile Middle East hinges on the potential consequences of daring to confront the Houthi forces directly.
