PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Mar 23, 2025
auto_awesome
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.
14:05
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
The Houthis, originally a local rebel group in Yemen, have evolved into a significant governing power backed by Iran's military support.
Their recent missile and drone attacks in the Red Sea threaten global trade and prompt urgent U.S. military responses to protect maritime interests.
Deep dives
Understanding the Houthis' Origins and Goals
The Houthis, officially known as Ansar Allah or Supporters of God, originated in Yemen during the 1990s, founded by Hussein al-Khuti to oppose what he perceived as corrupt government and foreign interference. This Zaydi Shia movement sought to revive Zaydi influence as they felt marginalized by Yemen's central authorities and foreign powers, particularly the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Their declared objectives include controlling Yemen, protecting their community, and opposing Western influences, which is explicitly stated in their slogan that calls for actions against America and Israel. Over time, the Houthis have transformed from a local rebel group into a significant governing power within Yemen, particularly during the ongoing civil war that erupted in 2014.
The Regional Impact of the Houthi Conflict
The conflict involving the Houthis escalated drastically during the Yemen Civil War, where they seized the capital Sana'a and subsequently engaged in violent clashes with a Saudi-led coalition supporting the internationally recognized government. Their partnership with Iran has turned the conflict into a proxy war, as Iran provides military support to the Houthis, including advanced weaponry, adding a regional dynamic to the crisis impacting not only Yemen but also neighboring countries. The ongoing violence has led to a humanitarian disaster in Yemen, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions displaced, while simultaneously allowing the Houthis to maintain control over substantial areas of the country. Their military capabilities have been enhanced significantly through Iranian assistance, enabling them to engage effectively against larger opponents.
Houthi Attacks and Their Global Ramifications
Since late 2023, the Houthis have conducted aggressive actions in the Red Sea, targeting commercial shipping and U.S. military vessels, which has raised international alarm regarding trade and national security. Significant disruptions to global shipping routes have occurred, with attacks on vessels leading to a drastic reduction in maritime traffic through this key area, increasing costs and inflation worldwide. The U.S. has deemed these attacks unacceptable, prompting military operations aimed at degrading Houthi capabilities and responding to threats against its naval forces. The escalating situation necessitates urgent U.S. action to protect maritime interests and uphold the safety of international shipping lanes vital for global trade.
In this Special Edition of The President’s Daily Brief, Mike Baker breaks down the rise of the Houthis—from a rebel movement in Yemen to one of Iran’s most dangerous and disruptive proxy forces. Backed by Tehran, the Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, threatening global trade and U.S. interests.
What do they want? How did they become such a major threat? And what does their growing power say about the broader shadow war between Iran and the West?
This is your in-depth look at the Houthis—who they are, how they fight, and why the world should be paying attention.
