Houthi: A Complete Guide in Simple Words

Introduction to the Houthi Movement

The Houthi movement, also called Ansar Allah, is a political and armed group that started in Yemen. It began in the 1990s in the north of Yemen, mainly among the Zaydi Shia Muslim community. At first, the group was focused on protecting their religion and culture. Over time, the Houthis became stronger and more active in Yemen’s politics and conflicts.

Today, the Houthis are one of the main forces in the Yemen civil war, which started in 2014 and has continued for years.

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Who Are the Houthis?

The Houthis are followers of Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, a religious leader from Yemen. The group got its name from him after his death in 2004. His family and supporters carried forward his ideas.

The group believes in:

• Protecting Zaydi Shia identity.
• Fighting against foreign influence in Yemen.
• Resisting corruption in the government.

History of the Houthis

• 1990s: Houthis began as a small religious movement.
• 2004: First war between Houthis and the Yemeni government after Hussein al-Houthi was killed.
• 2004–2010: Several wars were fought between Houthis and the government.
• 2011: Arab Spring protests weakened Yemen’s government. Houthis gained more support.
• 2014: Houthis took over Sanaa, the capital of Yemen.
• 2015 onwards: Saudi Arabia and its allies started a military campaign against the Houthis.

Role of Houthis in Yemen’s Civil War

The Houthis control northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa. They fight against the Yemeni government, which is supported by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries.

The war has caused:

• A huge humanitarian crisis.
• Shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.
• Millions of people losing their homes.

Houthi Beliefs and Goals

The Houthis follow Zaydi Shia Islam, which is different from other branches of Islam. Their main goals are:

• Independence from foreign powers.
• A government based on fairness and Islamic values.
• Protecting Yemen’s sovereignty.

They often use the slogan:
“God is great, death to America, death to Israel, curse on the Jews, victory to Islam.”
This slogan shows their anti-Western and anti-Israel stance.

Houthi and International Relations

The Houthis have strong ties with Iran, which gives them weapons and political support. This has made the conflict larger because:

• Saudi Arabia sees Iran as its rival.
• The war in Yemen is now part of a regional power struggle.

The Houthis have also attacked ships in the Red Sea and Saudi oil facilities, which affect global trade and energy.

Humanitarian Impact of Houthi Conflict

The conflict involving the Houthis has been called the world’s worst humanitarian crisis by the United Nations. Problems include:

• Millions of people facing hunger.
• Children suffering from malnutrition.
• Lack of clean water and health care.
• Spread of diseases like cholera.

Both the Houthis and other sides of the war have been accused of human rights abuses.

Houthi Attacks and Military Strength

The Houthis use:

• Ballistic missiles.
• Drones.
• Guerrilla tactics in mountains and cities.

They have attacked:

• Saudi Arabia’s airports and oil fields.
• Ships in the Red Sea.
• Yemeni government forces.

This shows that the Houthis are not just a small group but a powerful armed movement.

Future of the Houthi Movement

The future of the Houthis depends on peace talks and international pressure. Possible outcomes are:

• A peace agreement between Houthis and the Yemeni government.
• Continued war and humanitarian suffering.
• More foreign involvement, which could make the war longer.

FAQs

1. Who founded the Houthis?

The Houthis were founded by Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi in the 1990s in northern Yemen.

2. Are Houthis Shia or Sunni?

Houthis are Zaydi Shia Muslims, which is a branch of Shia Islam found in Yemen.

3. Why are the Houthis fighting in Yemen?

They fight to control the government, resist foreign influence, and protect their community.

4. Do the Houthis get support from other countries?

Yes, the Houthis receive support from Iran, including weapons and training.

5. What areas do Houthis control?

The Houthis control northern Yemen, including the capital city Sanaa.

6. Why is the war in Yemen important to the world?

Because it affects global oil supplies, Red Sea trade routes, and regional security.

7. What is the impact of the Houthis on civilians?

Millions of civilians face hunger, poverty, and disease because of the conflict.

8. Do Houthis want peace?

The Houthis say they want peace, but their conditions and foreign ties make peace talks difficult.

Conclusion

The Houthis are one of the most powerful groups in Yemen’s war. From a small religious movement, they have grown into a major political and military force. Their influence reaches beyond Yemen, affecting global politics, trade, and security.

While their rise shows strength, the conflict has caused massive suffering for ordinary Yemenis. The world continues to hope for a peaceful solution that ends the war and helps rebuild Yemen.