Expert explains how the Houthis became a threat to global shipping
The Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen has developed the capability to threaten a significant share of world trade through its position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Professor Thomas Juneau of the University of Ottawa breaks down the group's nature and the scale of the risk.
The sudden rise of Yemen's Houthi movement as a force capable of disrupting global trade has become one of the more unexpected regional security developments in recent times. Professor Thomas Juneau of the University of Ottawa, a specialist on the Houthis and Iran, discussed the issue in an interview with France 24.
Who the Houthis are
The Houthis are an armed political movement based in Yemen that receives backing from Iran. According to Professor Juneau, the group is markedly repressive in how it governs domestically, while continuing to expand its regional influence with Tehran's support.
A threat to shipping lanes
Territory controlled by the Houthis sits close to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's busiest maritime corridors, through which a substantial share of international trade passes. Professor Juneau explained that the group's geographic position gives it real leverage to effectively hold part of world trade to ransom.
Why it caught many off guard
The programme's title, "Sucker Punch," reflects how quickly and unexpectedly the Houthis have emerged as a force able to affect global shipping. The professor examined the group's objectives inside Yemen, its internal dynamics, and its relationship with Iran, while also assessing how serious the threat to world shipping truly is.
The interview was conducted for France 24's programme "Spotlight," hosted by journalist Gavin Lee.
