The Houthis' intervention in the Israel-Hamas war strengthened their military capabilities and bolstered their power and political influence in the north of Yemen, which could set the stage for renewed offensives in the south that may force major concessions from -- or even the collapse of -- the Yemeni government, creating opportunities for extremists and destabilizing the region. Since the Houthis intervened in the Israel-Hamas war in November 2023 by attacking Red Sea shipping and launching missiles and drones toward Israel, various media sources have reported that thousands of new recruits have joined the movement from across Yemen. U.N. experts evaluating the effectiveness of international sanctions on the group estimated in fall 2024 that it has up to 350,000 fighters, an increase from 220,000 in 2022, due to increased consolidation of power in the north and a recruitment boost caused by their intervention in the Gaza war. The Houthis have...
