Scott Ritter: BREAKING: Saudi Air Force Joins Massive Offensive at Bab al-Mandab

Summary

The discussion covers the Yemen war, Saudi Arabia’s position, US policy toward Iran, two disputed security incidents, and the war in Ukraine. Scott Ritter offers forceful—and often speculative—assessments. The claims and predictions below reflect his views as expressed in the interview.

Yemen and Saudi Arabia

The host describes Ansar Allah (the Houthis) advancing in parts of Yemen, including around Taiz and Marib, and reports attacks on Saudi targets. Ritter argues that Saudi Arabia is losing the war and is vulnerable because attacks on oil facilities and pipelines could undermine its economy. He says Saudi air defenses may be inadequate and that Saudi-backed forces depend heavily on proxies.

Foreign Support and Prospects for Intervention

The host mentions reported US advisers and possible involvement by Pakistan, Turkey, and French forces. Ritter argues that bringing together forces with different command structures and interests would be difficult, and doubts that Pakistan or Turkey could change the outcome.

He also says a US ground intervention is unlikely, warning that seizing territory near the Bab al-Mandab could escalate the conflict. Ritter predicts a potential crisis for Saudi leadership and the state; these are predictions, not established outcomes.

US Policy and Iran

Ritter says Washington may be underestimating Ansar Allah’s aims and Iran’s resilience. He doubts economic pressure alone will force Iran to collapse, citing its experience with sanctions and economic connections with Russia and China.

He suggests that President Trump’s statements against striking Iran could be intended partly to ease pressure on oil markets, but says a US attack cannot be ruled out. Ritter also argues that Israel would not be able to sustain an attack on Iran without US support.

UK Arrests and the Dubai–Israel Flight

Ritter says the people detained in the UK were reportedly fuel smugglers, not terrorists, and criticizes the interpretation of the incident as an Iranian plot.

Regarding a Flydubai flight incident, he questions the public account of how a passenger intervened. He says the flight-data recorder should be released and the physical claims examined, but does not establish that the account is false.

Ukraine

Ritter rejects claims that Russia is weakening and describes Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and industry as a strategic campaign. He disputes reported figures for Russian casualties, argues that Ukraine is suffering severe manpower losses, and says Russian forces are using drones and artillery in a methodical advance. These battlefield assessments reflect Ritter’s account.

Presenters and Contributors

Scott Ritter; an interviewer/presenter whose name is not identified in the subtitles.