Houthis Remain Strong After Years of Saudi, US and Allied Airstrikes

Houthis Remain Strong After Years of Saudi, US and Allied Airstrikes

A decade of airstrikes by Saudi Arabia and its allies has not permanently weakened Yemen’s Houthi movement. The Iran-backed group has retained significant military capabilities and in recent weeks has advanced towards the Bab el-Mandeb, a strategic maritime chokepoint, while launching attacks on regional targets and threatening shipping routes.

The Houthis possess ballistic and cruise missiles, drones and anti-ship weapons, with some systems resembling Iranian designs. UN experts have documented extensive military links involving Iran and other regional allies, while Iranian weapons and components have also been intercepted in shipments bound for Yemen. At the same time, the Houthis have developed domestic production capabilities, allowing them to manufacture parts of their arsenal.

Saudi Arabia intervened militarily in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis captured Sanaa and large parts of northern and central Yemen. Years of airstrikes produced limited changes on the ground before a ceasefire in 2022. Following the Gaza war, the Houthis began targeting Red Sea shipping, prompting US and British strikes from 2024 and a larger US air campaign the following year.

Analysts say defeating the group would likely require capable ground forces because air power alone has struggled to dislodge it. Anti-Houthi forces remain divided between Saudi-backed government forces and UAE-supported southern factions.

With Saudi Arabia reluctant to return to a prolonged ground war and the US focused on wider regional tensions, the Houthis continue to exploit divisions among their opponents. Limited diplomatic options and ongoing tensions involving Iran have further complicated efforts to contain the group.

5

Published: 58m ago

cricket blog team

All India Story

All India Story is your trusted source for comprehensive and up-to-the-minute news coverage across India. Bringing you the latest on politics, business, technology, entertainment, sports, and more, we are dedicated to keeping you informed with accurate, engaging, and insightful stories from every corner of the nation.

New Zealand Parliament Passes India Trade Deal Bill, 95% Exports Get Tariff Relief
Prev Article
New Zealand Parliament Passes India Trade Deal Bill, 95% Exports Get Tariff Relief
Next Article
4,800 Bangladeshis Stranded After UAE Visa Cancellations: What Happened?
4,800 Bangladeshis Stranded After UAE Visa Cancellations: What Happened?

Related to this topic: