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.