Escalating Tensions: The Rise of Yemen's Houthis

The escalation between Yemen's Houthi militia and the US-led naval coalition in the Red Sea benefits the Iran-backed militants, who seek confrontation with the United States to capitalize on the opportunity and gain international legitimacy. The attacks on cargo vessels have disrupted shipping routes and garnered broad popular support for the Houthis, who aim to provoke further without seeking a military victory, as the conflict serves as a low-cost opportunity for recruitment and bolstering their legitimacy.