Houthi militia risk dragging America into a new global war

The Houthi militia in Yemen is posing a significant risk that could potentially drag the United States into a new global war.

Just as there were concerns about the re-emergence of Al Qaeda after 9/11, the nightmare scenario now exists with the Houthis. They have gained control over much of Yemen's state apparatus and are sponsored by Iran, which funds them and arms them with advanced weaponry, including ballistic and cruise missiles, attack drones, and anti-ship missiles. They have been targeting Israel in solidarity with Iran's proxies, as well as attacking international commercial shipping.

The recent attacks by the Houthis on the USS Carney and other vessels highlight the potential for the West to be dragged into further conflict. These attacks also disrupt global trade, as the Red Sea is a vital maritime transit route connecting the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean.

The Western response to the Houthi threat has been marred by strategic naivety. The decision by Joe Biden to de-list the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, as part of his attempts to appease Iran and re-establish the nuclear deal, has contributed to the growing danger. The UK has also supported this policy of appeasement, failing to impose necessary sanctions and proscribe the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) despite its terrorist threat.

Western policy thus far has focused on maritime protection, but the recent escalation calls for a stronger response. There is a real risk of Iranian-driven escalation against Saudi Arabia, which could have severe consequences for oil supply. The recent conflict between Hamas and Israel may have been triggered by Iran's opposition to the developing normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia. This could provoke Iran to further intensify aggression not only against Saudi Arabia but also against the UAE, which has already normalized relations with Israel.

The policy of appeasement towards Iran and its proxies is incredibly dangerous. It is imperative to halt the financial support and weapons supply from Iran to the Houthis. The West must speak the language of the Middle East and confront this alliance forcefully.

In conclusion, the Houthi militia in Yemen presents a significant risk that could drag the United States and its allies into a new global war. With control over Yemen's state apparatus and support from Iran, the Houthis have acquired advanced weaponry. The Western response thus far has been characterized by strategic naivety and appeasement. It is time to confront this threat forcefully and cut off the financial support and weapons supply from Iran to the Houthis.

Source: The Telegraph