Houthis Demonstrate Enhanced Military Capability and Strategic Importance to Iran, Expert Says
The Houthis, who control a significant portion of northern Yemen, have become a more effective ally for Iran than Hezbollah, according to Yemen expert Al-Basha. This assessment is based on the Houthis' territorial control, state institutions, and strategic geographical position along the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical maritime chokepoint. The group seized Sanaa in 2014, establishing themselves as a de facto government and inheriting North Yemen's conventional military. Iran has heavily invested in the Houthis' military capabilities, providing anti-ship ballistic missiles, anti-ship cruise missiles, land-attack cruise missiles, and long-range drones. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its Quds Force are central to this relationship. While the Houthis have developed some local manufacturing, Iranian support is crucial for their advanced missile and drone arsenal. Unlike Hezbollah, Iran's support for the Houthis has primarily been military rather than financial, though discounted cook... 
