Iran boosts Houthi rebels' strength in Yemen's conflict
- Yemen's Houthi rebels have evolved from a small armed group into a significant military force with backing from Iran and other regional allies.
- Recent reports indicate that the group has conducted at least 134 attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since mid-November 2023.
- This transformation indicates a major escalation in the Yemen conflict, shifting it towards an international crisis.
Yemen has witnessed a significant escalation in its ongoing conflict, with the Houthi rebels emerging as a powerful military force, aided by external support from Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. This transition from a localized group to a major military organization has been marked by an increase in their operational capabilities and recruitment, now comprising approximately 350,000 fighters. The rebels have exploited geopolitical tensions, particularly the Israel-Hamas war, to bolster their regional influence. Since mid-November 2023, the Houthis have targeted merchant vessels and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, escalating their maritime offensive. U.N. experts report at least 134 attacks, indicating a marked change in the group's strategy to expand their military reach beyond traditional land engagements. The use of advanced weaponry, including the Hatem-2 ballistic missile, underscores their enhanced military prowess, facilitated by foreign military aid and training. The Houthis' actions also disrupt global shipping routes, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. Observers note that the scale and nature of these maritime attacks are unprecedented since World War II, highlighting the group's evolving military capabilities. This transformation poses significant threats to regional stability and safety. The ongoing internal conflict in Yemen remains fragile, with the potential for increased violence given the irregular recruitment tactics employing child soldiers and exploiting vulnerable populations. As the situation continues to evolve, it is evident that the ramifications of this conflict extend well beyond Yemen, impacting international security considerations.