Conflict with Saudi Arabia: Why violence in Yemen is flaring up again

The war in Yemen, a nation already grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, is threatening to escalate as tensions flare between the Houthi militia and the Saudi-led coalition.

Recent air attacks in the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa, in July marked the most significant escalation in the conflict in years. These strikes were reportedly launched by the internationally recognized Yemeni government to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing. The coalition, which controls Yemen's airspace, has heavily restricted international flights to Sanaa's airport.

“

Kurswechsel

Experts suggest the Houthi's attempt to land the Iranian plane was a challenge to coalition control over Yemeni airspace. The International Crisis Group believes the Houthi feel emboldened by the ongoing Iran-Krieg, with Tehran reportedly supporting the militia's actions. This marks a shift from Iran's previous efforts towards de-escalation in Yemen.

In response, the Houthi accused Saudi Arabia of the airport attack and declared a "blockade" on maritime traffic for the Gulf state. The Iran-backed militia has since targeted several Saudi ships and locations within the Gulf state. The conflict, which began in 2014 when the Houthi overran Yemen, has resulted in over 150,000 direct deaths and left millions dependent on aid in one of the world's poorest countries.

“

Blockade