Obama authorizes some support for Saudi airstrikes in Yemen

President Obama has authorized U.S. logistical and intelligence support for Saudi Arabia as it launches airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia began the airstrikes Wednesday night. The Houthi rebels reported firing anti-aircraft missiles as jets struck a military base in Yemen's capital. The Saudi government says nine other countries have joined its military operation but that the U.S. is not among them.

In a statement Wednesday night, a White House official says the U.S. is coordinating U.S. military and intelligence support with Saudi Arabia. National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan says the U.S. isn't taking direct military action in Yemen but did consult with the Saudis.

The U.S. and Saudi Arabia support the embattled president of Yemen, who fled the country earlier Wednesday amid airstrikes from Houthi forces.