Why Yemen’s Houthis have only grown stronger through years of war

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1. 2h ago

   Houthi Control of Bab al-Mandab Increases Iranian Influence

   Houthi forces have strengthened their position through years of war, securing control over the Bab al-Mandab strait. This strategic hold provides Iran with increased leverage over a vital Middle East maritime artery. Despite Saudi Arabia's initial military superiority in air power and funding, the coalition failed to translate these advantages into political control. The Houthi offensive in the Red Sea has further elevated the standing of their military leadership while turning the waterway into a battlefield.

   Why it matters

   The conflict in Yemen has lasted over a decade, pitting a Saudi-led coalition against Houthi rebels. The struggle highlights the gap between possessing advanced weaponry and maintaining actual governance over territory. Control of the strait allows the Houthis to disrupt global shipping lanes.

   What is confirmed

   • Houthi forces control the Bab al-Mandab strait.
   • The Houthi advance has turned a vital Middle East artery into a battlefield.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Iran has gained leverage due to Houthi control of the Bab al-Mandab strait.

   What to watch next

   • Evidence of direct Iranian command over Bab al-Mandab operations
   • Official responses from the Saudi-led coalition regarding political control in Yemen
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. The Washington Post — Iran gains leverage with Bab al-Mandab strait under Houthi control
   2. AP News — Why Yemen’s Houthis have only grown stronger through years of war
   3. The New York Times — Geography Is Power
   4. Reuters — Houthi Red Sea offensive elevates enigmatic Yemeni commander's standing
   5. The Guardian — The Guardian view on the Houthi advance in Yemen: another vital Middle East artery becomes a battlefield
   6. www.twincities.com — Inquiry into New Zealand man, who hid his kids in forest for years, lambasts officials’ actions
   7. www.wrvo.org — The Fed raises interest rates. And, EU proposes Canada become an 'associate member'
   8. peoplesreview.com.np — Why Saudi Arabia is losing the war in Yemen?
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