The goal is to help the Saudis put enough pressure on the Iran-backed rebels known as the Houthis (HOO'-theez) so that they're compelled to enter peace negotiations. The Saudis are partnered in their Yemen campaign with another key US Mideast ally, the United Arab Emirates.
The officials briefed reporters on the internal deliberations on condition they weren't quoted by name.
They said any additional US military support wouldn't include American troops on the ground in Yemen. The US already provides aerial refueling and intelligence to the Saudis.
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