Yemen Conflict Escalates: Houthi Forces Down Saudi Helicopter
The Houthis downed a Saudi light attack helicopter over Saudi Arabian airspace that was likely providing close air support (CAS) or conducting reconnaissance in nearby al Jawf Governorate, Yemen, amid ongoing fighting between Yemeni government-aligned forces and Houthi forces there. This development marks another escalation in the conflict, which has seen significant violence and humanitarian crises.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to resume salary payments for unspecified Yemeni government-aligned forces fighting the Houthis, according to Yemeni sources cited by UK media on October 17. The reported Saudi-UAE deal likely involves the UAE funding and Saudi Arabia providing air support to the Southern Giants Brigades, which is a Yemeni government-aligned military faction that the UAE helped establish in 2016 and is one of the main Yemeni government-aligned forces that are fighting in the current conflict against the Houthis.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al Sisi announced on October 18 that Egypt will provide defensive military aid to Saudi Arabia if Saudi Arabia requests support. This move underscores the growing regional involvement in the Yemen conflict, which has seen multiple countries providing military and financial support to various factions.
Strait of Hormuz Incident: Tugboat Attacked
Iran likely attacked a tugboat transiting the Strait of Hormuz near Khor Fakkan, the UAE, on October 18. United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on October 18 that two unknown projectiles struck a tugboat traveling southbound in the Strait of Hormuz northeast of Khor Fakkan, the UAE. The attack damaged the tugboat and injured one individual, but the vessel continued its route, according to UKMTO.
Smaller vessels, like tugboats, can facilitate ship-to-ship transfers by aligning and positioning larger vessels before and during ship-to-ship transfers, but it is unknown whether this specific tugboat was engaged in a ship-to-ship transfer when Iranian forces likely attacked it. This incident comes after Supreme National Security Council Secretary Major General Mohsen Rezaei claimed on October 11 that Iranian forces attack, on average, five small vessels conducting ship-to-ship transfers with larger vessels each day.
Gulf countries have increasingly relied on ship-to-ship transfers in recent months to evade Iranian detection and bypass Iranian control of the strait. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global energy supplies, and any disruptions or attacks can have significant economic and strategic implications.
Trump’s Claims: Russia’s Involvement
President Trump has claimed that Russia is not helping Iran, but there is no evidence to support this assertion. While Russia has historically maintained good relations with Iran, it remains unclear whether Moscow is actively supporting Tehran in the current conflict.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that one of the thirty-eight MOAB (Mother of All Bombs) weapons might be dropped on Iran’s nuclear facility, although these claims have not been confirmed. The prospect of a military strike against Iran raises significant concerns about regional stability and global security.
In conclusion, the Yemen conflict continues to escalate, with multiple factions involved in violent clashes. The Strait of Hormuz incident highlights the risks and challenges associated with maritime trade in the region. As tensions rise, it is essential for countries to engage in diplomatic efforts to reduce violence and promote a peaceful resolution.
Original Article: IRAN WAR WEEK 34, day # 2: US Considers ‘Mother Of All B*mbs’ — Dailykos