U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared on Monday that Saudi Arabia has every right to defend itself after coming under repeated attacks from Iran-aligned Houthi forces in Yemen. Speaking ahead of a European trip, Rubio stressed that the Kingdom faces ongoing aggression and is fully entitled to respond. He reaffirmed that the United States intends to honor its bilateral defense and security agreement with Riyadh, describing the partnership as binding and active. Rubio noted that Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, are now launching counteroffensives to reclaim territory lost in earlier fighting. Much of the renewed combat centers on the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital shipping lane linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Officials say Saudi and Yemeni units oppose Houthi control of positions near the waterway and view the current operations as a necessary pushback against Houthi advances.

Rubio’s comments signal continued American support through intelligence and advisory assistance rather than direct U.S. combat involvement. The Secretary framed the fighting as a direct response to Houthi aggression rather than unprovoked Saudi action. He pointed out that neither Riyadh nor Yemen’s internationally recognized government accepts prolonged Houthi dominance over key coastal areas. The remarks come as Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council announced broader efforts to restore state control, including moves toward the Houthi-held capital. Washington has repeatedly emphasized living up to its security commitments while avoiding deeper military entanglement in the complex conflict. Rubio’s clear endorsement of Saudi self-defense underscores the administration’s stance that allies under fire will not stand alone when facing Iran-backed threats.