Yemeni security and intelligence analyst Mohammed Basha says Iran-allied Houthi
forces aim to control all of Yemen and obtain recognition as the country’s
legitimate government. He says they want control of resources, airspace and
seaports and intend to negotiate with other Yemeni parties only after securing
recognition. Basha adds that, even if the Houthis seize the country, they would
demand tens of billions of dollars in compensation and reconstruction from Saudi Arabia
Arabia and could press for further payments. He says Iran likely provides
advisers and exerts pressure but does not fully control the Houthis; the group
could survive without Iranian support.
