Who Are the Houthis? From a Ragtag Militia to a Regional Power Broker

This analysis by Dr. Tughral Yamin, Senior IPS Associate, examines the Houthis’ transformation from a Yemeni insurgency into a regional strategic power. The policy insight explores their military capabilities, Iranian support, strategic control of the Bab al-Mandeb, and growing ability to threaten Saudi Arabia and international shipping. It also highlights the reported use of artificial intelligence in weapons development and the wider implications for Middle Eastern security. Importantly, the analysis argues that the Houthis’ influence stems less from conventional power than from their ability to disrupt the strategic calculations of major regional and global powers.