For a decade, Saudi Arabia had based its policy in Yemen on the assumption that time, money, and military force would be patiently and strategically employed to ultimately gain enough influence to subdue the Houthis. However, in the past two weeks, this assumption has been severely tested and has failed to meet expectations.
Strategic Areas Captured by the Houthis
The Houthis, after dominating strategic parts of the western coast of Yemen in the Red Sea, are now advancing towards Marib, the last major stronghold of the internationally recognized Yemeni government. Losing Marib would mean a decisive defeat for the Yemeni government, as this area is not only the last center of population and income in the north but also provides the Houthis access to Shabwa and Hadhramaut, two energy-rich provinces.
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Internal Challenges and Strategic Failures
While the Houthis continue their successes, government forces have also regained some positions in northwestern Marib and thwarted two major Houthi attacks. Meanwhile, Yemen's Defense Minister, Taher al-Aqili, has pointed to existing problems in efforts to achieve military unity and cited the lack of a joint command structure as a major obstacle.
In addition to military challenges in Yemen, Saudi Arabia is also facing issues in its north. The Saudi Foreign Ministry has confirmed that the drones targeting the country's east-west pipeline were launched from Iraq. This coincides with the fall of coasts and new Houthi attacks on the Khamis Mushait airbase, indicating coordination at the regional level.
While seeking international support, Saudi Arabia is facing a lack of sufficient backing from its partners such as Turkey and Pakistan. This situation has become particularly complicated as diplomatic negotiations with Iran have stalled.
Ultimately, Saudi Arabia faces serious challenges in its policies in Yemen. Failure to achieve military objectives and a lack of international support could have serious consequences for the country's position in the region and lead to an increase in Houthi influence.
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