The ground advance of Houthi militants towards the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait has raised global concerns about disruptions to shipping in a vital route. Saudi Arabia, as one of the main countries affected by these developments, is facing serious challenges.
Causes and Consequences of the Houthis' Advance
Iran is attempting to disrupt traffic in these vital routes through attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the most recent drone attacks attributed to Iraqi militants. The Houthis' advance in the port of "Mokha" and "Perim" Island in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait has made conditions more difficult for Saudi Arabia. Following these developments, Saudi Arabia is facing a lack of military intervention from the U.S. and European powers, which has significantly impacted the security situation in the country.
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Analysis of the Current Situation and Saudi Options
Analysts believe that the weakness of anti-Houthi forces within Yemen, especially the forces loyal to Saudi Arabia, has led to the recent successes of the Houthis. Andreas Krieg, a lecturer in security studies at King's College London, points out that various supporters in the anti-Houthi camp lack sufficient focus on the Houthis due to internal disagreements. Meanwhile, the Houthis are operating with a coherent aim to increase their influence in Yemen and control the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.
Given recent developments, Saudi Arabia finds itself in a position where not only have its initial goals in Yemen not been met, but the Houthis are expanding their dominance over the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Habib Hosseini-Fard, an international affairs analyst, states that Iran and the Houthis are trying to shift the balance of power in their favor, thereby increasing their regional influence.
Recent attacks on Saudi oil pipelines, which some observers attribute to Iran, demonstrate the vulnerability of this country to security threats. Despite relying on extensive defensive capabilities, Saudi Arabia remains at risk from missile and drone attacks.
Ultimately, the current situation in Yemen and the Houthis' advances have allowed Iran to act as a pressure lever against Saudi Arabia and the United States. If this trend continues, Saudi Arabia may face even more serious challenges regarding security and the balance of power in the region.
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