Saudi Arabia reignited its war on Yemen’s Ansarallah (“Houthis”) on 13 July, deploying mercenary forces and expecting a quick win. Instead, Ansarallah went on the offensive, striking Saudi military bases and oil infrastructure, including the East-West pipeline. By September 11, they’d captured Yemen’s west coast and key Red Sea islands, securing fire-control over the Bab al-Mandab chokepoint. Episode examines how the war became a strategic defeat for Saudi Arabia and the US, and a win for Iran.
Tag: Houthis
Yemen Defeats US: Implications for US-Israel War on Iran
New York Times: “Why Trump Suddenly Declared Victory Over the Houthi Militia,” examines Operation Rough Rider— the failed air campaign—against Yemen. Key takeaways vis-à-vis US-Israel air campaign against Iran. Gist: Iran holds the “trump” cards.
Iran-Yemen SITREP
Three distinct but related reports of note from today. (1) US engaged in indirect talks with Iran through Omani mediator: (1) talks were on curbing Iran’s expanding nuclear program; (2) and US asked Iran to throttle Ansarallah’s activities; and (3) Ansarallah tested a hypersonic missile. The reports indicate that major escalation is likely in Red Sea/Gulf of Aden.
Red Sea and Gulf of Aden SITREP
Ansarallah’s spokesman Brig.-Gen. Yahya Sariʾi announces new phase of operations against US and UK naval coalition that included a swarm attack of 37 drones at naval vessels; and several anti-ship ballistic missiles at an American merchant vessel.
War of the Flea in the Red Sea
Robert Taber’s classic study offers insights into Ansarallah’s (Houthi’s) Red Sea campaign. Five characteristics of ‘protracted war’ apply to Yemen. ‘Popular support’ in is with Ansarallah. This is demonstrated every Friday by the millions of Yemenis that assemble after prayers to support Palestine and oppose U.S./UK airstrikes. Even Ansarallah’s civil war enemies have drifted to their camp.
Yemen-Ansarallah SITREP
Houthis sank one British ship; struck two American ships; shot down a US drone. Danger of deadly strikes on US Navy and Royal Navy ships has increased, especially since Ansarallah has apparently received advanced missiles from Iran
Ansarallah’s Long Game: The Case of HMS Diamond
Withdrawal of HMS Diamond from Red Sea is probably because it ran out of ‘ammo’ (surface to air missiles used to down Houthi missiles) and has to be re-armed. Essay examines what this means for Ansarallah's blockade and military strategy.
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