Saudi Arabia is preparing for an offensive against Houthi militants in Yemen, aiming to secure the crucial Red Sea shipping route. Regional and Western officials confirm the operation, expected to launch within weeks, will be spearheaded by Yemeni forces under the oversight of Riyadh. Support will come in the form of Saudi air strikes. Options under consideration include a coastal advance to directly protect Red Sea passage or a broader, multi-front assault. Six sources familiar with the preparations have revealed details of this planned offensive. The Houthis, backed by Iran, represent a significant threat to international shipping in the Red Sea, prompting Saudi Arabia’s planned intervention.