The Houthi group in Yemen has rapidly advanced to control the Bab al-Mandab Strait and has become an important regional player. This advancement poses a serious threat to maritime traffic and the oil facilities of neighboring countries, especially Saudi Arabia.
History and Growth of Houthi Military Capability
The Houthis, which emerged in the late 1990s as a Zaidi Shia movement in northern Yemen, have become a strong military force through repeated wars against the Yemeni government. Following the collapse of the central Yemeni government during the Arab Spring in 2011, the Houthis exploited this situation and strengthened their ties with Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
In 2014, the Houthis seized Yemen's capital, Sana'a, and overthrew the government. This action led to military intervention by Saudi Arabia and the onset of a civil war that reached a stalemate and resulted in a ceasefire in 2022.
Impacts of Control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait
Control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait allows the Houthis to easily block maritime traffic in the Red Sea and damage Saudi oil exports to Asia. These achievements could also serve as a launchpad for attacks on Aden.
Analysts believe that the Houthis have enhanced their ability to strike distant targets using advanced missiles and drones. Houthi ballistic missiles have also reached Israel and targeted Saudi facilities and cities.
Findings from a 2025 United Nations experts committee report indicate that the Houthis have improved their missile and drone capabilities with technical assistance and domestic production. Meanwhile, Iran has provided the Houthis with weapons and military advice, although Tehran has denied these allegations.
According to assessments, the Houthis now have approximately 350,000 military personnel and have increased their capabilities by recruiting young individuals under 18. Training provided by Iran and Hezbollah has significantly impacted the organization and improvement of Houthi military structure.
