Houthi Rebels

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has deep roots in political, social, and economic issues, exacerbated by foreign interventions. The Houthi movement, which emerged from the Zaidi Shia community in northern Yemen, has been engaged in a protracted struggle against the Yemeni government and its allies, including Saudi Arabia and the United States. The US has conducted airstrikes in Yemen as part of its broader counterterrorism strategy, particularly targeting Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and ISIS affiliates. However, these actions have often resulted in civilian casualties, leading to widespread condemnation and accusations of war crimes.

Demographically, Yemen is one of the poorest countries in the Arab world, with a population exceeding 30 million. The majority are young, with a median age of around 19, which presents both opportunities and challenges in terms of governance and stability. The humanitarian crisis has been severe, with millions facing food insecurity and lack of access to basic services, further fueling discontent and conflict.

Geographically, Yemen's strategic location near key maritime routes adds to its significance, but also makes it a focal point for regional power struggles, particularly between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis, often viewed as Iranian proxies, have received support from Tehran, complicating the conflict and raising national security concerns for neighboring countries.

The political landscape remains fragmented, with various factions vying for power, making peace negotiations difficult. The US's involvement, framed as a fight against terrorism, is often perceived as exacerbating the situation, leading to accusations of supporting oppressive regimes and contributing to the cycle of violence in the region.