Houthis

The Houthis are an Iran-backed militant group controlling significant portions of Yemen, including the capital Sanaa. Led by Abdul Malik al-Houthi, they have emerged as a major regional force, particularly through their involvement in maritime disruptions and missile attacks against Israel and international shipping.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war, the Houthis have launched numerous missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli territory, particularly focusing on strategic locations like Ben Gurion Airport and the Port of Haifa. Their actions have triggered multiple air raid sirens across Israel, with most projectiles being intercepted by Israeli and American defense systems.

The group's disruption of international shipping through the Red Sea has led to significant economic consequences, including the closure of Israel's Eilat Port and numerous flight cancellations by major airlines. Their attacks have prompted retaliatory strikes from both Israel and the United States, targeting Houthi infrastructure in Yemen's ports of Hodeidah and Sanaa Airport.

The Houthis maintain close ties with Iran, receiving weapons and technical support, though Iran occasionally distances itself from specific Houthi actions. Their military capabilities include ballistic missiles, drones, and naval assets, though reports suggest that up to 80% of their capabilities have been degraded by recent U.S. and Israeli strikes.

International efforts to contain Houthi aggression have involved diplomatic initiatives and military action, including Operation Black Flag by Israel and coordinated strikes by U.S. and UK forces. Despite these measures, the group continues to threaten regional shipping and Israeli targets, maintaining their role as a significant factor in Middle Eastern geopolitics.