Paper: GS-II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: Global issues, Issue: Yemen Conflict and Red Sea Security
Context
Recently, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis captured Mokha and reportedly seized Zuqar Island. Their advance towards Bab el-Mandeb has renewed Yemen’s civil war and threatened global shipping.
Explanation
Major stakeholders
- The conflict primarily involves three factions: the Iran-backed Houthi movement controlling the north, the internationally recognised Yemeni government supported by Saudi Arabia, and the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a secessionist group aiming for South Yemen’s independence.
- The Houthis control much of northern and western Yemen and receive military and political support from Iran.
- The Presidential Leadership Council, based in Aden, represents the recognised government and receives Saudi support.
- Tareq Saleh’s National Resistance Forces previously controlled Mokha and defended government positions along the western coast.
- The United Arab Emirates, the United States, Israel and the United Nations also influence developments.
Strategic importance
- Mokha lies near Bab el-Mandeb, while Zuqar Island forms part of the Hanish archipelago.
- Bab el-Mandeb connects the Gulf of Aden with the Red Sea, Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea.
- Nearby coastal and island positions can support surveillance, missiles, drones, boats and sea mines against commercial vessels.
Major implications
- The Houthis gain territorial depth and bargaining power against Yemen’s government, Saudi Arabia and Western countries.
- Insecurity may divert ships around Africa, raising freight charges, insurance costs, delivery times and energy prices.
- India’s trade with Europe and energy security may suffer from prolonged disruption along this maritime corridor.
- Renewed fighting will worsen displacement, hunger and damage to hospitals, ports and humanitarian supply routes.
Way forward
- All parties must protect civilians, preserve humanitarian access and resume an inclusive Yemeni-led process under United Nations mediation.
- Regional powers should prevent arms transfers, avoid escalation and support maritime-security arrangements.
Conclusion
Yemen’s conflict combines a domestic power struggle with regional rivalry and maritime insecurity. Stability requires reconciliation, regional restraint and secure navigation through Bab el-Mandeb.
Source: (The Hindu)
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