According to The Wall Street Journal, Iran has systematically provided the Houthis with intelligence and direct assistance in guiding missiles and drones toward targets in Saudi Arabia. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the American publication. The outlet refers to individuals familiar with Saudi intelligence materials and data from the Yemeni alliance opposing the Houthis. According to them, it was thanks to Iranian support that the group managed to organize some of the most powerful and complex attacks throughout the armed conflict.
From Weapons Supplies to Operational Guidance
Tehran's support, according to the WSJ, encompassed not only logistics and arms supplies. Iran, the publication reports, helped the Houthis guide missiles and drones, shared intelligence, and contributed to improving militant tactics. Danny Citrinowicz, the former head of the Iran branch at Israel's Defense Intelligence, described the connection between the parties as «very, very strong» at the operational level. According to him, this is not merely a classic patron-client relationship, but strategic cooperation: Iran is interested in the Houthis' success because their actions inflict damage on Saudi Arabia and can drive up oil prices.
Control over Bab el-Mandeb and Strikes on Saudi Territory
Military cooperation with the Houthis, the WSJ assesses, has allowed Tehran to step up pressure on regional rivals through allied armed groups. Taking advantage of the offensive, the Houthis rapidly seized territories in Yemen and currently control part of the coastline along the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—a strategically vital maritime route for Saudi oil exports. The militants also target oil tankers, energy facilities, and airports within Saudi Arabia.
Two Attacks on Riyadh Airport in Two Days
Among the attacks mentioned in the WSJ report is a series of strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. On October 10, 2026, the airport was attacked, resulting in 12 deaths and 309 injuries. Following the strike, flights were diverted and the aviation hub was suspended. Just a day later, on October 11, the airport was attacked again: an unidentified projectile hit the terminal, causing a fire, killing one person and injuring 11. In total, the two attacks resulted in at least 13 deaths, according to the WSJ.
Impact on the Negotiation Process
Military cooperation with the Houthis, the American publication assesses, complicates efforts by US President Donald Trump and American partners in the Persian Gulf who are trying to end the war with Iran on favorable terms. Strengthening the Houthis through Iranian intelligence and operational support creates an additional lever of pressure on Riyadh and its allies, making a diplomatic settlement more difficult.
