Note: Background information is compiled from open-source research and analysis. One-pager documents for each category are under development.
Ansar Allah (Houthis) is a Zaidi Shia movement that controls northern Yemen including the capital Sana'a. Originally a tribal-religious insurgency from Sa'dah province, the group has evolved into a de facto government controlling territory home to roughly 70% of Yemen's population.
Military Capabilities:
Iranian Support: Tehran provides weapons, training, and strategic guidance through IRGC Quds Force advisors. Smuggling networks deliver components via Omani and Somali routes despite the UN arms embargo.
The Houthi Red Sea campaign began in November 2023 in declared solidarity with Gaza. Attacks on commercial shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb strait have disrupted one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, through which approximately 12-15% of global trade transits.
Impact on Global Shipping:
International Response:
Yemen faces the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with over a decade of conflict producing catastrophic conditions affecting the majority of the population.
Key Indicators:
Funding Crisis: The UN humanitarian response plan for Yemen consistently receives less than 50% of required funding, forcing cuts to food rations and health services at a time of escalating need.
Yemen is effectively divided between multiple competing authorities with no unified government controlling the entire country.
Key Political Actors:
Saudi-Houthi Negotiations: Saudi Arabia has pursued direct talks with the Houthis since 2023, signaling a strategic shift from military intervention toward diplomatic engagement. An Omani-mediated framework includes prisoner exchanges, economic confidence-building measures, and discussions toward a comprehensive ceasefire. However, the Houthi Red Sea campaign has complicated these negotiations.
UN Peace Efforts: UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg continues efforts toward a nationwide ceasefire and inclusive political process, though the multi-party nature of the conflict and external interests make comprehensive agreement elusive.
The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in March 2015 (Operation Decisive Storm) to restore the internationally recognized government after the Houthi takeover of Sana'a.
Current Dynamics:
Saudi-Iran Rapprochement: The March 2023 Saudi-Iran deal (brokered by China) to restore diplomatic relations had direct implications for Yemen, with both sides signaling willingness to de-escalate proxy competition. However, the October 2023 Gaza war and subsequent Houthi Red Sea campaign tested this dynamic.
Economic Dimensions: Saudi Arabia provides significant financial support to the PLC government, including fuel shipments, central bank deposits, and humanitarian aid. Houthi control of Hodeidah port and Sana'a airport remain key negotiating points.