A growing military campaign led by Yemen’s Houthi rebel group is increasingly positioning them as a significant force within Iran’s so-called “axis of resistance,” potentially overshadowing Lebanon’s Hezbollah amid ongoing regional turmoil. The Houthis have recently expanded control over parts of the Yemeni coast and several islands in the strategic Red Sea, an area critical for regional oil exports and international maritime trade.
This development follows the escalation of conflict after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran in early 2026, with the axis of resistance—comprising mainly Iranian-backed groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, Iraqi Shiite militias, and the Houthis—responding through targeted actions. Notably, the Houthis had largely remained less active until these recent offensives, signaling a possible shift in regional power dynamics.
Houthis’ Growing Strategic Role
The US-based Institute for the Study of War highlighted that the Houthis’ territorial gains may enable them to control a body of water under the axis of resistance, directly influencing vital oil export routes. At the same time, Iran continues to vie for dominance over other strategic passages like the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian media outlets, particularly hardline newspapers, have celebrated Houthi gains, emphasizing Sanaa’s increased importance as a hub of resistance. Nightly pro-Houthi rallies in Iran further illustrate the group’s rising profile among Tehran’s supporters.
Comparison to Hezbollah
Traditionally, Hezbollah has been considered the axis of resistance’s foremost military faction. However, Hezbollah’s recent setbacks—including Israeli attacks and territorial losses in Syria—have diminished its clout. Meanwhile, Houthis have demonstrated capabilities such as shooting down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet with a modified missile, surpassing Hezbollah’s record of downing drones and fighter jets.
Experts like Farea al-Muslimi of Chatham House contend that while Hezbollah helped build the Houthis’ capacity, the Houthis have now outmatched Hezbollah in strategic value. Andreas Krieg, a security studies lecturer at King’s College London, notes that while Hezbollah provided deterrence against Israel from Lebanon, the Houthis offer Iran leverage over Saudi Arabia, Israel, and critical shipping lanes.
Iran’s Influence and Houthis’ Autonomy
Despite their close alignment with Iran, there remains debate about the extent of Iranian control over the Houthis. Analysts point out that Houthis maintain their own leadership, ideology, and territorial ambitions, sometimes pursuing military actions independently of Tehran’s direct command. Yet, reports indicate increased Iranian logistical and military support in recent years, with discussions in 2026 about closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait involving Iranian and Houthi leaders.
The Houthis’ media focus remains primarily on their conflict with Saudi Arabia, which enforces a blockade on their territories, underscoring their localized priorities even as alignment with Iran deepens.
Challenges in Countering the Houthis
Efforts by Saudi Arabia, the United States, and allies to curtail Houthi advances have historically failed. The group’s operating model does not rely on formal public services or salaries, funneling resources exclusively into military efforts. Their ideology embraces martyrdom and sacrifice, contrasting with Hezbollah’s political and social welfare engagement in Lebanon.
These factors combined make the Houthis a uniquely resilient and formidable actor in the region. Experts warn their rising influence not only presents a heightened international threat but also jeopardizes the concepts of republican governance and civic citizenship within Yemen.
