Background on Key Players and Context
The recent US attacks in Yemen have resulted in a tragic loss of life and injuries. The port, located in western Yemen under Houthi control, was targeted by the United States with the aim of disrupting a source of funding and fuel for the Houthis, who are backed by Iran. The Houthis, controlling significant parts of Yemen including its capital Sanaa, initiated their attacks in late 2023 to support Palestinians in Gaza amidst the conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Who are the Houthis?
The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi Shia political and military movement originating from the north of Yemen. They have been engaged in a civil war against the internationally recognized government since 2015. Their control over significant territories and the capital, Sanaa, has made them a major force in Yemen’s ongoing conflict.
Iran’s Role
Iran has been accused of providing support to the Houthis, both politically and militarily. This backing has been a point of contention between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as other regional powers. The US designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization in March 2021 reflects this geopolitical tension.
Details of the US Attacks
According to reports from media aligned with the Houthis, at least 74 people died and nearly 200 were injured in the US attack on the Ras Issa oil terminal in the Red Sea. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that these attacks aimed to weaken the Houthis’ economic power by eliminating their fuel source and illegal income, which has funded their activities for over a decade.
Impact on Global Trade
The Houthi offensive has blocked the Suez Canal, a crucial maritime route for global trade, causing numerous shipping companies to reroute their vessels around the southern tip of Africa. This diversion results in increased costs and delays, affecting international commerce.
Reactions from Regional and International Actors
Iran condemned the US bombings as “barbaric” and claimed they violated fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter. Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist movement, also denounced the attacks as a “flagrant aggression” and a “war crime.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the Houthis? The Houthis, or Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi Shia political and military movement from northern Yemen involved in a civil war against the internationally recognized government since 2015.
- Why are the US attacks significant? The attacks aim to weaken the Houthis’ economic power by eliminating their fuel source and illegal income, which has funded their activities for over a decade.
- How have these attacks affected global trade? The Houthi offensive has blocked the Suez Canal, causing shipping companies to reroute their vessels around Africa, leading to increased costs and delays in international commerce.
- What reactions have there been from regional and international actors? Iran condemned the bombings as “barbaric” and claimed they violated the UN Charter. Hamas denounced the attacks as a “flagrant aggression” and a “war crime.”
