Houthi missile strike in Saudi Arabia exposes growing regional threat, Yemen expert warns

The Houthi missile strike on a terminal in Saudi Arabia's capital highlights the ongoing regional threat posed by the group, according to Yemen expert Inbal Nissim-Louvton. Speaking with 103FM, Nissim-Louvton, from Tel Aviv University's Moshe Dayan Center and Open University, discussed the fighting between Saudi-backed forces and the Houthis.

She stated that it is unclear who is winning the confrontation, as opinions vary. Nissim-Louvton noted that the port of Mokha and Mayyun Island, near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, were under Houthi control recently, but Saudi-backed forces have since regained them. The ongoing conflict is part of a broader civil war in Yemen, with the Houthis still posing a challenge to several regional countries.

The expert emphasized that the terrorist organization possesses more than just missiles, including state-like economic capabilities. She explained that countries battling the Houthis face limitations, particularly when targeting ports that are crucial for Yemen's civilian population. Disruptions to maritime traffic in the region can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the involved countries but also the broader international community due to impacts on freedom of movement along vital maritime transport and trade routes.