Ryan McBeth, an intelligence analyst and Substack writer focusing on the Middle East, dives into the complexities of the Houthi movement in Yemen. He explains why these rebels have recently captured Western attention, driven by their ties to Iran and the impact on global shipping routes. McBeth discusses the challenges faced by the Saudi military against the Houthis, the significance of Yemen in global supply chains, and the potential risks of escalating conflicts. His insights reveal broader geopolitical implications that might affect us all.
The Houthi rebels in Yemen, funded by Iran, pose a threat to global commerce and put pressure on Saudi Arabia and Israel.
The conflict in Yemen has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with widespread famine and destruction of infrastructure.
The involvement of external powers, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, adds complexity to the Yemeni conflict and makes a peaceful resolution challenging.
Deep dives
The complex conflict in Yemen
Yemen is currently in a state of conflict, with multiple parties involved and no clear progress being made. The Houthi rebels, funded by Iran, control the capital city of Sanaa and some western regions of Yemen. They have been launching missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia and Israel, aiming to disrupt global commerce and put pressure on these countries. The Saudi-sponsored Yemeni government and the Southern Transitional Council, supported by the UAE, are also part of the conflict. The situation has led to a stalemate, with no clear resolution in sight. The involvement of external powers like Iran and the potential impact on global shipping make the situation even more complex.
The impact of the conflict on Yemen
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has had devastating consequences for the country and its people. The constant fighting has led to widespread famine, with a majority of Yemen's population facing food insecurity. The conflict has also led to the destruction of infrastructure, including the aquifer that supplies fresh water to the region, creating long-term environmental problems. The Yemeni people, already suffering from the consequences of war, now have to deal with the added challenge of a polluted water source. The situation highlights the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and the need for international intervention.
The rise of Houthi rebels and their tactics
The Houthi rebel movement in Yemen began in 2014, but its roots can be traced back centuries to the split between Sunni and Shia Islam. The Houthis, who belong to the Zayidi sect of Shia Islam, have a history of opposing corruption and have gained support for their cause. They have employed various tactics in their fight, including launching missiles and drones at their enemies. They have also used cyber warfare and smuggling routes to acquire weapons and supplies. Their ability to carry out operations like taking over a cargo ship and landing a helicopter on it showcases their training and determination.
The role of external powers in the conflict
External powers, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, play a significant role in the Yemeni conflict. Iran provides support to the Houthi rebels, supplying them with weapons and funds. This allows Iran to exert influence in the region and gain control over strategic areas like the Red Sea. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia supports the Yemeni government, aiming to maintain its power and prevent Iran's influence from expanding. The involvement of these external powers adds complexity to the conflict and makes it harder to find a peaceful resolution.
The challenges and uncertainties ahead
The conflict in Yemen presents numerous challenges and uncertainties. The stalemate between different factions makes it difficult to achieve a lasting peace. The impact on Yemen's population, including widespread famine and environmental problems, requires urgent attention and humanitarian assistance. The proxy war between Iran and Saudi Arabia, fought through their respective allies, further complicates the situation. With no clear end in sight, the conflict in Yemen remains a volatile and dangerous situation that requires international attention and cooperation.
Who are Yemen's Houthis, and what threat do they pose to us here in the West? Intelligence analyst Ryan McBeth brings us in from Out of the Loop.
Welcome to what we're calling our "Out of the Loop" episodes, where we dig a little deeper into fascinating current events that may only register as a blip on the media's news cycle and have conversations with the people who find themselves immersed in them.
On This Episode of Out of the Loop, We Discuss:
Though the group from which they originate has been around for thousands of years, why are the Houthis in Yemen suddenly making headlines and drawing attention from the West?
How Iran benefits from (allegedly) arming the Houthis to fight a proxy war against Saudi Arabia's influence in the region.
Why Yemen is a crucial link in the global supply chain — and how it enriches whoever is able to control it.
Why the well-funded Saudi military has a difficult time keeping the Houthis in check.
Possible global consequences of the recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.
And much more!
Connect with Jordan on Twitter, on Instagram, and on YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on an Out of the Loop episode, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
