The Houthis, officially known as Ansar Allah (Partisans of God), are a Zaidi Shia political and armed movement that emerged from northern Yemen in the 1990s. They have played a significant role in shaping Yemen’s recent history, particularly since the outbreak of the Yemeni Civil War in 2015. Understanding who the Houthis are, their origins, beliefs, and goals is crucial to comprehending the complex conflict in Yemen.
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The movement’s roots lie in the Houthi family, specifically Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, a prominent Zaidi Shia religious and political leader. In the early 1990s, Hussein al-Houthi founded the Believing Youth movement, which aimed to revive Zaidi Shia religious and cultural identity in northern Yemen, particularly in Saada Governorate. This movement arose in response to perceived marginalization and discrimination against the Zaidi community by the Yemeni government, which was dominated by Sunni Muslims.
The Believing Youth movement initially focused on religious and cultural activities, establishing educational centers and organizing religious gatherings. However, it gradually adopted a more political stance, criticizing the government’s corruption, alliance with the United States, and perceived neglect of the northern region. Tensions between the Houthis and the government escalated throughout the 2000s, leading to a series of armed conflicts known as the Houthi Wars.
Zaidi Shiism, the branch of Shia Islam followed by the Houthis, differs significantly from the Twelver Shiism practiced in Iran. Zaidis believe in the imamate, a form of leadership that combines religious and political authority. Historically, Zaidi imams ruled parts of Yemen for centuries. However, the Zaidi imamate was overthrown in the 1962 revolution, and the community felt increasingly marginalized in the subsequent decades. The Houthis draw upon this history and see themselves as defenders of the Zaidi faith and the marginalized population of northern Yemen.
Hussein al-Houthi was killed by Yemeni government forces in 2004, but his brother, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, took over the leadership of the movement. Under Abdul-Malik’s leadership, the Houthis solidified their military and political power. They successfully exploited widespread discontent with the Yemeni government, particularly after the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011.
In 2014, the Houthis launched a major offensive, capturing the Yemeni capital, Sana’a, and forcing the resignation of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi. This triggered the ongoing Yemeni Civil War, which has plunged the country into a humanitarian crisis. The Houthis have since established control over much of northern Yemen, including key cities and strategic locations.
The Houthis’ ideology is complex and draws upon various influences, including Zaidi Shiism, Yemeni nationalism, and anti-imperialism. They advocate for political and economic reforms, greater autonomy for northern Yemen, and an end to foreign interference in Yemeni affairs. While the Houthis have received support from Iran, the extent and nature of this relationship are debated. Experts like Dr. Fatima al-Saeed, a Yemeni political analyst, argue that “the Houthis’ primary motivation is rooted in local grievances and a desire for self-determination, rather than simply being Iranian proxies.”
The conflict in Yemen is multifaceted, involving numerous actors and complex regional dynamics. The Houthis are just one piece of this puzzle, but understanding their history, beliefs, and goals is crucial to comprehending the conflict and working towards a peaceful resolution. “The Yemeni crisis is a tragedy of immense proportions,” says Dr. Ahmed al-Qadhi, a historian specializing in Yemeni history. “Simplifying the conflict to a mere proxy war ignores the deep-seated local factors that have fueled the conflict for decades.”
Houthi fighters in Saada, Yemen
Abdul-Malik al-Houthi delivering a speech
Conclusion
The Houthis are a complex and multifaceted movement with deep roots in Yemeni history and society. Their rise to prominence reflects long-standing grievances and the failure of successive Yemeni governments to address the needs of the marginalized population in the north. While often portrayed as Iranian proxies, the Houthis’ primary motivations lie in local factors and a desire for self-determination. Understanding “Who Is Houthis” requires a nuanced approach that considers their unique history, ideology, and the complex political and social context of Yemen.
FAQ
What is the difference between Houthis and Zaidis? While all Houthis are Zaidis, not all Zaidis are Houthis. Zaidism is a branch of Shia Islam, while the Houthis are a specific political and armed movement within the Zaidi community.
Are the Houthis terrorists? The Houthis are a designated terrorist organization by some countries, while others do not consider them as such. This is a complex issue with differing international perspectives.
What do the Houthis want? The Houthis have a range of goals, including greater political and economic autonomy for northern Yemen, an end to corruption, and a reduction in foreign influence.
Who is fighting the Houthis in Yemen? The Houthis are primarily fighting a coalition led by Saudi Arabia and supported by various regional and international actors.
What is the current situation in Yemen? Yemen remains embroiled in a civil war with a devastating humanitarian crisis. Efforts to achieve a lasting peace settlement are ongoing.
What role does Iran play in the Yemen conflict? Iran is accused of providing support to the Houthis, but the extent and nature of this support are disputed.
How can the conflict in Yemen be resolved? Resolving the conflict requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying political, economic, and social issues fueling the conflict, as well as inclusive dialogue and negotiation between all parties involved.
