Riyadh Under Attack: What Are Saudi-Led Coalition's Options?

Saturday's attack on Riyadh, the deadliest on Saudi soil in over a decade, marks a sharp escalation in the Yemen war. Riyadh backs the internationally recognized government against the Houthis, who recently captured swathes of the Red Sea coastline. The Saudi-led coalition has vowed a firm response, but what options are on the table? We discuss this with Dr. Nawaf Obaid, Senior Research Fellow in the Department of War Studies at King's College London. Dr. Obaid analyzes the strategic implications of the attack and the potential military and diplomatic responses. He notes that the coalition faces a delicate balance: retaliating forcefully while avoiding a wider conflict. The Houthis' increasing capabilities, including drone and missile strikes, pose a significant challenge. The international community has condemned the attack, with the UN and US President Trump weighing in. Trump has signaled he might join action against the Houthis, adding another layer to the crisis. Dr. Obaid discusses the possible paths forward, including intensified airstrikes, ground operations, or renewed diplomatic efforts. The choices made in the coming days will shape the future of Yemen and regional stability.