In recent developments, the Houthis have successfully taken control of the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands in the southern Red Sea. This maneuvering is part of their rapid progression toward gaining authority over the crucial Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital maritime channel.
Strategic Captures and Implications
Earlier this month, they seized the pivotal port city of Mocha, displacing forces associated with the Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC). The Houthis expanded their grip to include Perim Island, strategically positioned within the strait, and the northern Zuqar islands. Their control now extends to just 20 kilometers from the African coastline, enhancing their influence over maritime traffic traveling from the Gulf of Aden into the Red Sea.
This pivotal location allows the Iran-backed group to effectively manage the flow of maritime traffic through the region. The Houthis have openly stated that their focus is on targeting Saudi maritime operations in the strait instead of enforcing a broader naval blockade, which suggests a calculated strategy to avoid provoking a strong military response from the United States, given that their actions target a specific adversary.
Tactical Coordination with Regional Allies
The Houthi offensive coincided with drone attacks by an Iraqi Shi’ite militia, targeting the Saudi East-West pipeline on September 10. This pipeline had previously facilitated oil transport from Saudi Arabia to the Red Sea, evading the often-hostile Strait of Hormuz. The attack is expected to render the pipeline non-operational for a period of three to five weeks, further complicating Saudi logistical capabilities.
Recent documents reveal the intricate network of cooperation among Iran, Iraq, and Lebanese allies, highlighting their support for the Houthis. This alliance extends beyond mere funding to encompass military and logistical expertise, bolstering the Houthis’ operational capabilities significantly. Iranian, Iraqi, and Lebanese personnel are reportedly on the ground in Yemen, providing specialized training in drones, missiles, and intelligence operations—essential skills that have strengthened Houthi combat effectiveness.
Challenges Facing Anti-Houthi Forces
It is essential to contrast the cooperative strategies of the Houthis with the divisions within the anti-Houthi coalition. In a noteworthy development, the Saudi military acted against highly capable South Yemeni factions supported by the UAE. This internal conflict has weakened their collective resistance against the Houthis, demonstrating systemic vulnerabilities within anti-Houthi forces.
Moreover, the United States appears to be navigating cautiously, seeking to maintain distance from escalating tensions. They aim to avoid direct involvement in the conflict, as the Houthis’ actions currently focus on Saudi targets rather than international shipping, a strategy that minimizes U.S. engagement.
Overall, the structure established by the Houthis, combined with substantial backing from Iranian and regional allies, has expanded their military capabilities. In juxtaposition, disarray among anti-Houthi forces suggests that reversing the current trends will demand significant efforts on multiple fronts, addressing both the strength of the Houthis and the weaknesses of their opposition. This underscores the intricate dynamics shaping the ongoing conflict in the region.