Trump's Reversal on Houthi Strikes Leaves Loaded Bombs Unused

President Donald Trump repeatedly reversed his decision on whether to order US military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Yemen, ultimately deciding by Sunday to hold off on the operation despite advanced preparations. Trump initially resisted Saudi appeals for weeks, then approved airstrikes after a Thursday call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, before reversing course again. The White House declined to comment, though officials cited strains on the US military from its ongoing war with Iran. The Houthis have targeted Saudi shipping and captured areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, raising energy market concerns. Experts question whether limited bombing would succeed, noting the group withstood US bombardment last year and Yemeni ground forces remain fragmented.