Mohammed bin Salman meets CENTCOM chief, discusses regional situation

According to Saudi state media, the two leaders discussed the latest regional developments during the meeting. However, neither Saudi nor American officials have released further details of the talks.

The meeting comes at a time when the military activities of the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen and attacks on Saudi Arabia have increased.

According to reports, Houthi fighters have advanced rapidly in recent days in areas of Yemen along the Red Sea. After seizing the key coastal city of Mocha, they have extended their reach to important islands near Bab al-Mandab.

Reports claim that after Mayun (Perim) island, the Houthis have also seized the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands. This has given them a further strategic advantage over the key Red Sea trade route.

Bab al-Mandab connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is a vital sea route for global trade. Ships use it to travel from the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and then on to the Suez Canal.