Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have demonstrated their capability to carry out major attacks, even after a month of U.S.-led airstrikes. Recently, they caused substantial damage to a ship in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and reportedly shot down an American drone valued at tens of millions of dollars.
The ongoing assaults by the Houthis in the Red Sea corridor highlight the challenges in curbing their guerrilla-style attacks. These attacks have enabled the rebels to maintain control over Yemen's capital and a significant portion of the country's north since 2014.
Despite facing accusations of human rights abuses, the Houthi rebels have gained increased recognition in the Arab world due to their resilience against regional allies of the United States. The prolonged attacks on international shipping pose a growing risk to the global economy.
Recent incidents include the targeting of the Belize-flagged bulk carrier Rubymar with anti-ship ballistic missiles, resulting in significant damage to the vessel. Additionally, the rebels claimed responsibility for downing a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone off the coast of Hodeida.
The Houthis have also attacked other ships, such as the Greek-flagged Sea Champion and the Marshall Islands-flagged Navis Fortuna. These actions have disrupted maritime trade routes connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Despite U.S. airstrikes targeting the rebels, the Houthis continue to pose a threat with their asymmetric warfare tactics. The American military has intercepted numerous missiles and drones launched by the rebels, but the conflict persists.
Analysts warn that the escalating attacks could lead to broader U.S. intervention in the volatile Middle East region. The Houthis' actions, fueled by their alignment with the Palestinian cause, may further complicate the situation and necessitate stronger deterrence measures.
As the conflict unfolds, the U.S. faces diminishing options for deterring the Houthi rebels, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation and its implications for regional stability.
