Yemen’s Houthi rebels continue to control the capital Sana’a and much of northern Yemen in March 2026, as the broader regional conflict between the United States and Iran has created new strategic calculations. The Houthis, who have been launching missile and drone attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, have found themselves at a crossroads between continued confrontation with the US-led maritime coalition and potential diplomatic opportunities.
The death of long-time Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi in early 2025 created uncertainty about the group’s direction, but successor authorities have maintained the hardline stance. The group has publicly aligned with Iran following the US-Iran war outbreak, providing rhetorical and some material support for Tehran’s campaign while continuing to target maritime traffic.
The Houthis are playing a complex game, supporting Iran while also preserving their own autonomy. They see opportunity in the US-Iran confrontation.
Red Sea Security
Houthi attacks on commercial shipping have continued despite the maritime coalition’s efforts to protect vessels. The group’s anti-ship missiles and drones have successfully targeted vessels that venture into Yemen’s territorial waters without coalition escorts. Insurance costs for shipping through the region have skyrocketed, affecting global trade routes.
Humanitarian Situation
The humanitarian crisis in Yemen remains the worst in the world, with 21 million people requiring assistance according to UN estimates. The destruction of infrastructure, displacement of millions, and economic collapse have created conditions of widespread famine and disease. International aid organizations struggle to raise sufficient funding for humanitarian operations.