President Donald Trump spoke by phone with Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi on Sunday (September 20, 2026), four people familiar with the matter said, discussing the advances of the Iran-backed Houthis around a vital global waterway. U.S.
Trump has also rebuffed Saudi requests for military support against the Houthis, Reuters has previously reported. Mr. Alimi requested U.S. support for his Saudi-backed government in its fight against the Houthis, who this month took key areas along the Bab al-Mandeb strait in a lightning offensive. Trump had made no direct pledge of military support during the call. The White House and Yemen’s information Minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Mr. The U.S. has designated the Houthis as a terrorist organisation. Mr.
Two of the sources, one Yemeni and one Western, said Mr. Trump has said publicly that the U.S. is in contact with the Houthis and that the group has said it will not target U.S. shipping.
