The Houthi movement has transformed from a localized Zaydi religious revival group in the 1990s into a formidable military force with significant regional reach. By capitalizing on the instability of the 2011 Arab Spring and securing support from Iran and Hezbollah, the group successfully seized control of Sanaa in 2014. Their evolution was marked by years of grueling civil war against a Saudi-led coalition, ultimately positioning them as a major player capable of disrupting global shipping routes. Their recent strategic advancement along the Red Sea coastline, including control over the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait, underscores their shift from a ragged mountain militia to an organization that can influence international energy markets and regional security.

This newfound capability is fueled by an increasingly sophisticated arsenal of ballistic missiles and drones, which have been used to strike targets as far away as Israel and deep within Saudi Arabia. While the Houthis have made strides in domestic weapon manufacturing, investigations by the United Nations indicate that they remain heavily reliant on illicit smuggling networks and technical expertise from Iranian and Hezbollah allies. With a force now estimated at 350,000 fighters—supported by advanced tactical training and a clear focus on asymmetric warfare—the group has become a persistent security challenge that extends far beyond Yemen’s borders.