US President Donald Trump spoke by phone with Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi on Sunday over the recent advances by Iran-backed Houthi rebels and the security situation around the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Al-Alimi reportedly sought US assistance for Yemen’s Saudi-backed government in its fight against the Houthis, according to four sources familiar with the conversation cited by Reuters. The Houthis have reportedly captured several key areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait during a rapid offensive this month.

However, Trump did not pledge direct US military support to the Yemeni government during the call, according to two sources—a Yemeni source and a Western official familiar with the matter.

The development has raised questions about how directly Washington intends to become involved in Yemen’s conflict amid the Houthis’ recent territorial gains. The White House and Yemen’s information minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Concerns Grow Over Bab al-Mandab
The Bab al-Mandab Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. It is one of the world’s major maritime routes, carrying significant commercial and energy traffic between Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The Houthis’ recent advances in areas surrounding the strait have heightened concerns over maritime security and the potential impact on international shipping.

Houthi attacks in and around the Red Sea in recent years have already posed security risks to commercial vessels, prompting many ships to take alternative routes.

Uncertainty Over US Response
According to Reuters’ sources, Al-Alimi requested US assistance, but Trump stopped short of making a commitment to provide direct military support.

The lack of a military commitment has left Washington’s next steps uncertain. It remains unclear whether the United States will provide diplomatic, military or other forms of assistance to the Yemeni government in response to the Houthi advances.

The situation is also being closely monitored because of the wider regional and international implications of any escalation around the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Houthis’ Ties With Iran
The Houthis have long been described by the United States and its allies as being supported by Iran. The group controls Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, as well as large parts of the country.

Meanwhile, Yemen’s internationally recognized government has received support from Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries.

The conflict has therefore remained closely linked to broader regional rivalries, while developments around the Bab al-Mandab Strait have added an international dimension because of the waterway’s importance to global trade.