Jeddah: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper and his accompanying delegation in Jeddah on Monday, state news agency SPA reported. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and the United States and addressing the latest developments in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting was also attended by Saudi Minister of State, Cabinet member and National Security Adviser Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban. The discussions come at a critical time as tensions rise between government forces and the Houthis in Yemen. The Houthis have recently intensified their attacks on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, causing significant concern.

The recent escalation saw the temporary shutdown of the East-West pipeline as a precautionary measure following drone strikes from Iraq targeting the Riyadh and Medina regions. The ongoing conflict in Yemen began when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, and several other provinces in September 2014, leading to a Saudi-led coalition intervention in March 2015 to support the internationally recognized government.

Axios reported that the crown prince has sought military assistance from US President Donald Trump to counter the Iran-backed group, which has reportedly made advances in recent fighting. The meeting between Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Adm. Brad Cooper signifies the ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the US in addressing regional security challenges.