The President's Daily Brief PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
4 snips
Mar 23, 2025 Explore the alarming rise of the Houthis from a local rebellion in Yemen to a significant regional threat backed by Iran. Their missile and drone attacks in the Red Sea have escalated tensions, jeopardizing global trade and U.S. interests. Learn about the geopolitical implications of their newfound power and how they have transformed maritime conflict. This in-depth look reveals why the world must pay attention to the ongoing shadow war between Iran and the West as it unfolds in this crucial area.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Houthi Origins and Ideology
- The Houthis, officially Ansar Allah ("Supporters of God"), emerged in Yemen in the 1990s.
- Founded by Hussein al-Huti, a Zaydi Shia cleric, they oppose Yemen's government and foreign interference, particularly from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
Houthi Rise to Power
- The Houthis gained power during the Yemen Civil War (2014), allying with former president Saleh to seize the capital, Sana'a.
- This sparked a Saudi-led intervention, backed by the U.S., turning the conflict into a proxy war with Iran.
Iranian Backing and Regional Implications
- Iran's support is crucial for the Houthis, providing weapons, training, and financial aid, making them a regional threat.
- The Houthis are part of Iran's "axis of resistance," which includes Hezbollah and Hamas.