Saudi Arabia and Syria are discussing the possibility of sending Syrian troops to Yemen to participate in an offensive by Riyadh-backed forces against the Houthis.
Modern.az reports that “Axios” published this information, citing American officials.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara is seriously considering this proposal. However, no final decision has been made yet. According to American officials, the administration of US President Donald Trump has been informed of the discussions and, in principle, does not object to the possible participation of Syrian troops.
The issue of sending troops to Yemen was discussed earlier this week during a meeting between Ahmed al-Shara and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. The Saudi side hopes to strengthen the Yemeni government forces, which lag behind the Houthis in terms of readiness, with the help of Syrian troops.
Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces launched a large-scale ground offensive against Houthi positions over the weekend. The aim of the offensive is to reclaim rebel-held territories, including the capital Sana'a and areas around the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait.
According to an “Axios” source familiar with the discussions, Syria could send 10,000-20,000 troops to Yemen. Among the units being considered are the 90th Division, located near Damascus, and the 84th Division, located in the south of the country.
The possible participation of Syrian troops raises concerns about the religious aspect of the conflict. The Houthis adhere to the Zaydi branch of Shia Islam. Some of the Syrian units, however, are said to include Sunni Islamist fighters who fought against the Bashar al-Assad regime.
Two American officials stated that the US Central Command was also involved in discussions of possible options for transferring Syrian troops to Yemen.
