U.S. officials are believed to have held undisclosed discussions with representatives of the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Oman over the weekend, as the group has reportedly achieved significant military victories against Saudi-backed forces in Yemen.
This meeting supposedly occurred at the U.S. Embassy in Muscat and was, at least partly, facilitated by the Omani government, according to a report by Reuters citing five informed sources. The conversations suggest that Washington is engaging directly with the Houthis, even while the current administration maintains their designation as a foreign terrorist organization, as noted in the Federal Register.
Jacob Olidort, director of American Security at the America First Policy Institute, commented that these direct talks highlight the Iranian regime’s calculations and the effectiveness of U.S. efforts to diminish threats posed to American citizens by Iran. He suggested that the Iranian regime may perceive the Houthis as a lower-risk means to escalate aggression against U.S. personnel and allies, instead of resorting to more recognized proxies like Hezbollah.
Alex Welz, a senior research associate at the Heritage Foundation, remarked that the Houthis might be trying to gain some sense of international legitimacy by demonstrating their capability to secure the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. However, he noted that, as a U.S.-designated terrorist group closely aligned with Iran and adversarial to the West, any assurances from the Houthis should be treated with skepticism.
A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on the specifics of the reported meeting, but noted that the U.S. maintains regular communication with regional partners concerning Yemen and emphasizes shared counterterrorism objectives against the Houthis and other groups that contribute to instability in the region.
Reportedly, during discussions, the Houthis indicated they had no plans to target U.S. vessels and reaffirmed their commitment to a ceasefire established with the U.S. in 2025. Additionally, sources indicated that the Houthis pledged not to attack Israeli or other commercial ships, except for those belonging to Saudi Arabia.
The State Department highlighted that the U.S. retains the right to defend its national interests and maintains strong support for Israel’s self-defense, consistent with international law.
Two officials from the Houthi side attended the talks, including Mohammad Abdulsalam, who is under U.S. sanctions, while U.S. Embassy personnel represented the American stance. Though the State Department did not confirm the meeting’s occurrence, it reiterated that protecting navigation rights in the Red Sea and preventing terrorism export remain crucial priorities for the U.S.
Olidort remarked that the Houthis’ assurances could be seen as a reflection of Iranian concerns. Should the Houthis weaken in their conflict with Saudi Arabia, it could mean a loss of an Iranian proxy and a potential uptick in regional instability amid heightened diplomatic and economic isolation.
A question arose regarding arms sales amid inquiries about negotiations between the U.S. and the Houthis, yet the State Department emphasized it does not confirm or comment on proposed arms sales until they are formally notified to Congress. All proposed sales are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering various political and economic aspects, including human rights considerations.
According to reports, the Houthis have managed to capture U.S. military vehicles and weapons from Saudi-aligned forces, suggesting that they have become more formidable in recent encounters.
The designation of Ansar Allah, the official name of the Houthis, as a foreign terrorist organization was enacted by the Trump administration in March 2025, soon after President Trump initiated the process during his early days in office. The designation cited numerous attacks on U.S. Navy ships and commercial vessels in the Red Sea initiated by the Houthis.
Even so, negotiations occurred later that same year, culminating in a ceasefire in May 2025 following U.S. military actions intended to curb attacks on maritime operations. Analysts note this latest development may indicate fractures within the anti-Houthi coalition in Yemen and underline the urgency of addressing maritime security challenges in the region.
Although there has been a pause in attacks on shipping, the U.S. Maritime Administration continues to warn that there remains a potential threat to commercial vessels linked to the U.S. in the Red Sea and surrounding areas.
The most recent talks occurred after Houthi forces gained control over Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline, including the historic port of Mocha and the strategic Perim Island situated in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
As the Houthi advancement continued, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sought U.S. military support from President Trump but was informed that the U.S. did not plan to engage directly in the conflict.
Experts suggest that the meeting reflects an effort by the Trump administration to de-escalate tensions and avoid opening a new front in the conflict with Iran. They indicated the Houthis might be trying to specify that their campaign is focused on ending Saudi intervention rather than intensifying attacks on global shipping routes.
In a report, President Trump mentioned that the Houthis had reached out, expressing a desire for the U.S. to refrain from engaging in the renewed hostilities in Yemen. It was also noted that Vice President JD Vance confirmed ongoing direct talks with the Houthis and consistent communication with Saudi Arabia regarding the situation in Yemen.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also engaged with Omani officials regarding the importance of regional de-escalation while reiterating U.S. support for navigation rights.
Reflecting on past U.S. involvement, some analysts noted that America’s extensive support for Saudi Arabia and its allies has proven disastrous. As the current administration seems to be trying to lessen its engagement in the enduring conflict, it’s possible that U.S.-Houthi dialogue could yield more constructive outcomes moving forward.
