'Few cards to play': Saudi Arabia faces limited options against Houthis with allies out

Saudi Arabia is currently facing restricted strategic options in its ongoing conflict with the Houthi movement as key international allies, including the United States and Turkey, distance themselves from the situation. The kingdom is reportedly hesitant to re-engage in a full-scale military conflict without external support, leaving it with limited leverage to address the regional security challenges posed by the group.

While Saudi Arabia had previously remained relatively insulated from the broader regional instability, recent developments have highlighted the kingdom's vulnerability. Despite the financial success of the state-owned oil company, Saudi Aramco, which reported significant profits earlier this year, the current geopolitical landscape has forced Riyadh to reconsider its military posture as it navigates the risks of acting unilaterally.