Tim Lenderking, former U.S. envoy to Yemen, strongly emphasized the necessity for the United States to increase its diplomatic focus on Yemen following the significant advancements of the Houthis during a webinar at the Middle East Institute in Washington. He stated, "This group needs more political and military support."
Concerning Developments on Yemen's Coasts
The Houthis have recently taken control of all the western coasts of Yemen, including the port of Al-Mokha and the strategic island of Perim, giving them an advantage in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Saudi Arabia, which has led a coalition against the Houthis since 2015, has engaged in exchanges of attacks with this group following these developments. Riyadh announced on Friday that it had halted its vital east-west pipeline due to multiple attacks.
Tim Lenderking further added, "The U.S. government's approach to Yemen has been significantly passive since Donald Trump returned to power, and this needs to change." He warned that the recent advancements of the Houthis indicate that this situation requires more attention from the U.S.
Strategic Implications for Iran and the U.S.
The Houthis' control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, located opposite the Strait of Hormuz on the Arabian Peninsula, could give Iran an advantage in its conflict with the U.S. and allow it to restrict regional transportation and supply routes. Tim Lenderking described these developments as "very concerning" and called for a coordinated and joint approach from Gulf countries.
As Yemen has been embroiled in war since 2014, Tim Lenderking and other experts emphasize the importance of immediate attention and action regarding this crisis. According to F. Gregory Gause, a fellow at the Middle East Institute, "Bombing the Houthis is simply not possible," and the only way to exert leverage over this group is through Tehran.
