alHouthi

The Houthi movement, officially Ansar Allah, is a Zaydi Shia revivalist religious-political-revolutionary movement that originated in Yemen. The group emerged in the 1990s under the leadership of Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, a spiritual leader from the northern Saada Governorate. Initially, the movement focused on religious education and advocating for Zaydi rights, but it evolved into a significant political and military force.

The Houthis gained prominence during the Yemeni Revolution in 2011, which led to the overthrow of President Ali Abdullah Saleh. They became a major player in the ensuing power vacuum and civil conflict. In 2014, they seized control of the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen. This triggered a military intervention by a Saudi-led coalition in March 2015, aiming to restore the internationally recognized Yemeni government.

The conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen. The Houthis are supported by Iran, a fact that has been a point of contention between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The movement's ideology emphasizes resistance against perceived foreign interference and corruption, and they have significant popular support in parts of Yemen. International efforts to broker a peace deal have been ongoing, but the conflict remains complex and deeply entrenched.