Former CIA Director John Brennan joins Preet to discuss the history and military capabilities of the Houthis, Iran's influence, and the challenges of US policy. They also explore the risks of escalation and the importance of staying informed about the fluid situation.
The Houthis, supported by Iran, pose a significant security threat to international navigation in the Red Sea with their wide range of weapons and determination to carry out attacks.
Iran supports the Houthis as a means to pressure Saudi Arabia and assert its influence in the region without engaging in direct conflict or war.
Deep dives
The Houthis: Who Are They and What is their History?
The Houthis are a tribe located along the border of Saudi Arabia in the northernmost part of Yemen. They have historically been independent and built up their own military capability. Over time, they expanded their range of influence and control in Yemen. The group, also known as Ansar Allah, follows the Zaidi sect of Shiism and has received support from Iran and Hezbollah. They have developed a wide range of weapons, including ground weapons, drones, and missiles, and operate as a quasi-nation state.
The Houthi Threat to International Shipping
The Houthis pose a significant security threat to vessels navigating the Red Sea, where a large portion of international shipping takes place. Their attacks on ships, including the use of drones and missiles, can cause damage, disrupt the flow of goods, and jeopardize the safety of personnel. The United States and other countries are taking action to protect international navigation and degrade Houthi capabilities, but the Houthis remain determined to carry out these attacks as long as they have the means.
Iran's Role in Supporting the Houthis and Escalating Conflict
Iran has been providing support to the Houthis as a way to put pressure on Saudi Arabia, their regional rival. Iran sees it as their obligation to support Shia groups like the Houthis, as well as Hezbollah, and uses them to exert influence in the region. The recent escalation in Houthi attacks is partly a result of Iran's encouragement and a way to increase pressure on the United States and the West. Iran aims to assert itself against its rivals while avoiding a direct conflict or war.
Over the last few weeks, the US and UK conducted military strikes in Yemen after repeated attacks by a group called the Houthis on US-allied ships in the Red Sea. Former CIA Director John Brennan joins Preet to discuss the history of the Houthis, the influence of Iran, and the threat level for US national security.
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