Explainer-How Yemen's Houthis went from a small mountain militia to a big regional threat

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Explainer-How Yemen's Houthis went from a small mountain militia to a big regional threat

AI Summary

Yemen's Houthi group has evolved from a small militia into a significant regional military force backed by Iran, controlling the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and capable of disrupting shipping and striking oil facilities in Saudi Arabia.

LONDON, Sept 17 (Reuters) - A lightning advance by Yemen's Houthi group has brought the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait under its control, making the once ragged highland militia a regional player with global clout. This is how the group evolved into a formidable fighting force with Iranian support that can disrupt vital shipping and strike critical oil and gas facilities in neighbouring Saudi Arabia. WHO ARE THE HOUTHIS?

World Security Conflict Politics Energy Shipping Yemen Houthis Bab el-Mandeb Iran Saudi Arabia regional conflict strategic straits militia

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