US, Saudi lack response plan as Houthi strikes hit Riyadh, island seized

Houthi forces have seized a strategically important Red Sea island and fired ballistic missiles at Riyadh, exposing Saudi vulnerability. US President Trump has rebuffed requests for direct intervention, and multiple sources indicate Washington and Riyadh lack a coherent response plan despite increased US intelligence sharing. The absence of a coordinated strategy raises the risk of further Houthi escalation and regional instability.