Arabic version: الحوثيون يحافظون على مسافة من الصراع الإسرائيلي الأمريكي حول إيران

The ongoing conflict involving Israel and the US targeting Iran has sparked widespread turmoil across the Middle East, yet Yemen’s Houthi movement remains notably restrained. The Houthis, who hold power in northwestern Yemen and are aligned with Iran, have historically launched attacks against US and Israeli interests, especially since the onset of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023. However, their recent response to the US-Israeli assaults on Iran, which began on February 28, has been limited to rhetoric and protests.

According to Al Jazeera, analysts suggest that the Houthis’ current restraint is a strategic choice to avoid provoking a direct retaliation from the US and Israel. The group’s leadership remains cautious following significant losses in previous conflicts, including Israeli airstrikes that killed at least 12 high-ranking officials last August.

Despite their current inaction, the Houthis are not entirely incapacitated and could escalate their involvement if they perceive a direct threat or if Iran requests it. Some experts believe that the Houthis are preparing for potential military engagement, indicating that their entry into the conflict may only be a matter of time.

The Houthis possess the capability to disrupt shipping in the Red Sea and launch drone and missile attacks, which could target Israeli territories and US military assets if tensions escalate further. The recent attacks on Iranian leadership have raised concerns about the morale of the Houthis, who view Iran as a significant ally. The potential weakening of Iran could have serious implications for the Houthis and their military operations in Yemen.

At the grassroots level, the US-Israel attacks have caused anxiety among Yemenis, with residents preparing for potential conflict. The situation remains fluid, and the Houthis’ future actions will depend on how events unfold in the region.