A rapid advance by Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, in Yemen has left a Gulf Arab kingdom with limited response options, all carrying a high cost. Experts note that the kingdom does not desire a large-scale war. However, the increasingly bold attitude of the rebels may draw the kingdom into a broader conflict.

The Houthi rebels have taken a strategic island, and their attacks against the kingdom have raised the likelihood of a large-scale retaliation. An expert on Yemen has stated that the probability of such a response increases daily, leaving the kingdom with no other option.

Further details on the situation and potential outcomes are available from the source, including analysis by Nadeen Ebrahim and comments from expert Mohammed Al-Basha.