Trump Halts Houthi Strike Prepared at Saudi Request

President Donald Trump ordered preparations for airstrikes against Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels at Saudi Arabia's request but called off the attack at the last minute, according to U.S. officials. Trump reversed his earlier opposition after Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman repeatedly urged him to stop Houthi aggression during a phone call on September 17. He halted the strike on September 20, just as commanders had approved targets and loaded bombs onto fighter jets. The decision reflected concerns about overextending U.S. forces amid the Iran war and risking a renewed conflict with the Houthis, who have not attacked America. Trump said he remains in "deciding mode" on Iran and noted ongoing communication with the Houthis.