Trump Claims Houthis Agreed Not to Fight U.S. as Regional Tensions Rise

The U.S. and Houthis operate under conflicting public positions on direct conflict, creating uncertainty in regional military escalation forecasting. Saudi Arabia faces continued Houthi missile and offensive operations despite reported U.S. diplomatic engagement. U.S. military stated it will not conduct offensive strikes, constraining the Saudi-led coalition's options. Iran faces port blockade and U.S. pressure for negotiations, while border units remain on alert; Qatar mediation attempts to restart U.S.-Iran talks on Strait of Hormuz access and port sanctions. Measurable near-term effects: airspace closures (flights/trade), blockade impacts on Iranian oil exports, and potential military escalation if diplomatic channels fail.