Over the past decades, the Middle East has witnessed endless wars and
armed conflicts, where Iran and its proxy forces and militias in the region have been
active participants. This has fundamentally changed the structure of the ‘Axis of Resistance’
and the frame of mind of its associated organizations. After years as key instruments
of Iranian policies, many countries and militias have broken free from the Iranian authorities and started to pursue local political agendas, which are not always in
line with Tehran’s interests in the region.
The main reason for this shift was not conflicts in the region but the change in
the balance of power and security system; as a result, Tehran has lost its ability to control,
finance, direct, and keep pro-Iranian political forces and armed groups in check.
The situation in Yemen is a good illustration of these changes. The Houthi movement,
which for decades secured a foothold in the Red Sea for Tehran, has practically slipped
out of Tehran’s control.
The article briefly examines the history of relations between Iran and Yemen, focusing
on Iran’s policy in Yemen following the Arab Spring. Particular attention is paid
to the military, political, and ideological tools that Tehran has successfully used to integrate
into the social fabric of and key institutions of Yemen. The author also provides
an analysis of the shift in Iran’s relations with Saudi Arabia, other regional powers,
and major international actors as a result of Iran’s policy in Yemen.
The author believes that despite Iran’s best efforts, the unfavourable regional
environment and the local situation in Yemen did not allow Tehran to boost its ties with
the Houthis and make them reliable allies in South Arabia and the Red Sea.
Iran; Yemen; Saudi Arabia; international relations; regional security.