Days before a US ceasefire agreement with the Houthis, US intelligence indicated the Yemeni group sought an exit after intense bombings, prompting Houthi leaders to reach out to US allies in early May. The US military’s extensive bombing campaign ended on May 6 after 52 days, allowing President Trump to declare victory, while the Houthis, facing pressure and seeking to rebuild, agreed to a ceasefire facilitated by US negotiators. The agreement marked a significant shift, as it involved bypassing Israel and underscored the complex dynamics influencing regional security and US interests.