Globes claims that even as other regional wars have subsided, the Houthis in Yemen are intensifying their attacks, casting doubt on their independence from Iran. Sixteen people were injured after a Houthi-launched ballistic missile impacted a park in Jaffa, Tel Aviv, early on Saturday morning…CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
This follows a similar attack last week, highlighting their sustained aggression as other fronts quiet down.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen, in contrast to the de-escalation in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, signals a potential shift in the Houthis’ motives.
While previously aligned with Iran, their actions now suggest a growing autonomy.
Iran’s reduced regional influence, especially after withdrawing from Syria, has not deterred the Houthis from maintaining their militant posture.
Uneasy Alliances And Independence.
Dr. Inbal Nissim-Louvton, an expert on Yemen, explains that the Houthis’ connection to Iran is pragmatic rather than ideological.
“The Zaydis have undergone a process of ‘Iranization,’ she says, and not all in their ranks are entirely comfortable with it, some would prefer to see Iranian influence diminish.
This sentiment aligns with observations by Dr. Yoel Guzansky of the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS). “The Houthis have always had a degree of independence.
Iranian control over them has never been as tight as it was over Hezbollah or Assad’s regime. It’s unclear how coordinated their actions are with Iran currently.
Despite Iran’s 2023 rapprochement with Saudi Arabia, including mutual embassy openings brokered by China, the Houthis have continued their attacks on coalition targets.
This persistence hints at their prioritization of self-interest over full alignment with Iranian directives.
A Global Threat.
The Houthis’ strategic position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has turned them into a global security concern. Disruptions to maritime traffic through this critical chokepoint have forced ships to reroute around Africa, extending supply chains by two weeks.
Egypt’s Suez Canal toll revenues dropped significantly, from $9.4 billion in 2022-2023 to $7.2 billion in 2023-2024, exacerbating economic woes.
“The Houthis remain a global threat due to their strategic location, their proximity to Saudi Arabia, and their enhanced capabilities, explains Dr. Guzansky.
Their actions have also destabilized Yemen’s economy, leading to severe revenue losses and widespread shortages.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
