Analysts warn that the Houthis, a Yemeni rebel group, are showing no signs of backing down as they continue to target US ships and escalate tensions in the region. The Houthis, who recently attacked a US navy destroyer in the Red Sea, are undeterred by recent air attacks on Yemen by the United States and United Kingdom. This has led to a surge in their popularity domestically and gained support from Iran-supported groups in the region, forming what is known as the “axis of resistance.” The ongoing war in Gaza has further fueled their anger, as they seek to pressure Israel to cease fire or allow sufficient humanitarian aid in.
The strategic control of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a crucial passage leading to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, gives the Houthis significant leverage. They have been intercepting Israel-bound and Israeli-owned ships passing through this strait, aiming to exert pressure on Israel. Recently, they expanded their operations by targeting a US ship in the Gulf of Aden, marking their second attack on a vessel off Yemen’s southern coast. While these interceptions have not caused any casualties so far, experts warn that a direct hit on US or British soldiers could escalate tensions even further.
The regional ramifications of the conflict are becoming increasingly evident. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria have targeted US bases, prompting retaliatory measures from the US. Additionally, Lebanon’s Hezbollah has engaged in drone and rocket attacks with Israel. This escalation has raised concerns about a wider regional conflict. Despite US President Joe Biden’s claims of seeking to avoid further escalation, critics argue that his actions, such as bypassing Congress to send weapons to Israel, contradict his words.
The situation in Yemen is also impacting regional security, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Both countries have been working towards a ceasefire with the Houthis to end Yemen’s decade-long civil war. However, the recent exchange of attacks in the Red Sea poses a threat to the peace process. While Saudi Arabia aims to avoid a restart of past Houthi attacks that disrupted its oil output, the situation remains precarious.
The Houthis’ actions have already disrupted global shipping through the Red Sea, prompting the US and UK to respond with military force. However, these retaliatory measures have not deterred the Houthis. In fact, analysts predict that their attacks may intensify, as they gain more support and emboldenment from their followers. The recent massive rally in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, demonstrated the growing backing for the group.
Despite the lack of casualties caused by the Houthis so far, their confrontations have raised concerns about the impact on global shipping and the overall humanitarian crisis in Yemen. While some analysts debate whether the Houthis would like all hostilities to cease and stop their Red Sea interceptions if a ceasefire is declared in Gaza, the ongoing conflict in Yemen suggests that the group may continue their operations.
Ultimately, the consequences of further escalation would be devastating for the Yemeni population, who are already suffering from what is described as the world’s biggest humanitarian disaster. The international community must closely monitor the situation and work towards finding a peaceful resolution to this protracted conflict.
