The United States has reportedly ruled out launching direct “offensive strikes” against Yemeni Armed Forces positions in support of Saudi Arabia, CNN reported Sunday, citing an unnamed US official.

“No offensive strikes,” the official told the network, according to the report.

The reported position comes as Riyadh faces renewed hostilities and cross-border fire with the Yemeni Armed Forces, while Saudi Arabia is also seeking indirect channels to reach an understanding with the Sanaa government.

Washington sets limits on military involvement

According to CNN, US President Donald Trump has made clear that direct American participation in kinetic strikes against YAF positions represents a red line.

A second US official cited by the network said Washington believes Saudi Arabia is receiving the support it needs against the YAF without direct US offensive operations.

The official pointed to an expansion in intelligence sharing and the exchange of targeting data between Washington and Riyadh.

The reported arrangement would allow the United States to provide military intelligence and targeting assistance while stopping short of aggressing against the YAF.

Saudi Arabia explores indirect channels

The reported US position comes as Saudi Arabia is also seeking a political route to de-escalate the confrontation.

A senior source told Al Mayadeen on Thursday that Riyadh asked Oman to approach the YAF over a proposed two-week truce, in which talks towards resolving Yemen’s humanitarian file would be held.

The Kingdom indicated that an agreement on the humanitarian situation in Yemen would be announced during the proposed ceasefire period.

The efforts follow the resumption of hostilities and cross-border fire between Saudi Arabia and Ansar Allah in mid-July, after a period in which diplomatic efforts had sought to contain the conflict.

Before hostilities resumed, the Sanaa government had called on Riyadh to address several longstanding demands tied to the conflict.

These included a prisoner exchange, the lifting of restrictions on airports in northern Yemen, and compensation for damage inflicted on infrastructure and the civilian population in areas during the 12-year war.

The demands reflect the broader issues that have remained at the center of the Saudi-Yemeni war, including the blockade, civilian and infrastructure losses, and the fate of prisoners.

Source:Websites