The Rise of Yemen's Ansar Allah Amid Airstrikes by Saudi Arabia and the U.S.

The Yemen's Ansar Allah forces, known as the Houthis, have significantly strengthened over the past decade despite severe airstrikes from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and other countries. Now, these forces, with support from Iran, are advancing towards key maritime passages and targeting Saudi oil facilities. This situation has impacted global markets, and options to curb this group have become severely limited.

Increase in the Number of Ansar Allah Forces

According to reports, the number of Ansar Allah forces has increased from about 30,000 in 2015 to about 350,000 in 2024. This force also has the capability to produce a significant portion of its weapons domestically in Yemen. Michael Knights, a researcher on Ansar Allah issues, has pointed to the power and commitment of this group, describing them as "the most committed, ideologically purest, and most aggressive regional allies of Iran."

Read more: Revealing the Houthis' Military Use of Artificial Intelligence and Dominance over the Red Sea

Consequences of Ansar Allah Attacks and Saudi Response

Despite ongoing efforts to curb Ansar Allah, this group has managed to become a serious threat to Saudi Arabia and other allied countries by increasing its power. The limitations of Saudi Arabia's interceptor missile reserves are clearly evident, and it is unclear how long Riyadh can fend off Ansar Allah's attacks and those of Iran-backed groups in the region.

In recent weeks, anti-Ansar Allah forces have retreated from their positions, and Ansar Allah has advanced towards Bab el-Mandeb. The Saudis, considering heavy casualties and the risk of a prolonged conflict, are reluctant to re-enter a full-scale war. Additionally, the U.S., still engaged in a conflict with Iran, apparently has little inclination to enter this conflict.

This development occurs as Ansar Allah, as an armed force, continues to gain strength under the influence of regional and international developments and gradually becomes one of the key players in the Yemen war. Given these circumstances, it seems there is no way to stop Ansar Allah unless fundamental changes occur in regional and international policies.

Read more: Houthi Attack on Aramco Facilities and Saudi Airbase · Mahdi Al-Mashat: The People of Yemen are Ready to Sacrifice for Islamic Sanctities