Empire 125. The Origin of the Houthis
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Feb 22, 2024 
Iona Craig, an award-winning investigative journalist and Yemen specialist, dives deep into the origins and rise of the Houthi movement. She recounts her harrowing experiences covering Yemen's conflict and her encounters with the Houthis. The discussion highlights the group's transformation from a Shia religious movement to de facto rulers, the geopolitical significance of their recent attacks on international shipping, and the broader humanitarian crisis following their coup in 2014. Her insights illuminate the complex interplay of local and global politics in this war-torn region.
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Houthi Takeover
- Iona Craig, a journalist, was surprised by the Houthis' takeover of Sana'a.
- The security forces simply welcomed the Houthis and opened the gates.
Zaydi Revivalism
- Hussein al-Houthi, a Zaydi cleric, founded the Believing Youth.
- His Zaydi teachings differed from traditional interpretations, causing division.
Zaydi Divisions
- Zaydism has internal divisions regarding the right to rule.
- Some believe in lineage from Prophet Muhammad, while others favor political processes.