Iran empowers Yemen's Houthis to disrupt global trade

Iran is using Yemen's Houthi rebels to challenge the United States' policies, especially after the decline of other proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah. The Houthis now represent Iran's most effective tool against U.S. pressure tactics. They have become a significant threat, particularly to vital shipping routes that are crucial for global trade. Houthi forces have improved their military capabilities since the 2014 civil war. They now possess advanced missiles and drones, primarily developed with help from Iran's military. These arms are delivered to Yemen in clever ways, such as hiding them in maritime containers. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) coordinates this military support, led by General Abdolreza Shahlai, who has a history of orchestrating attacks on U.S. forces. The Iranian government maintains tight control over operations in Yemen. The stakes are high, as around 12% of global trade flows through affected areas like the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. Since late 2023, there have been numerous attacks on merchant vessels, leading to significant detours for shipping routes, which disrupt international trade. Experts suggest that Iran is eager to showcase its influence amid rising tensions with the U.S. However, the Houthis' prospects could be limited. The current U.S. administration could take a different approach than the previous one. There are indications that President Trump intends to intensify military action against the Houthis, aiming for a decisive impact. Analysts believe that Iran’s strategies create ongoing regional instability. Some call for a stronger resistance against the Iranian regime, suggesting that significant change can only come from within Iran itself.