Analysts say Iran is using the Houthi rebels in Yemen as a "variable card" to advance its regional agenda. Defense analyst Alexandru Khudishtaianu stated, "From an operational perspective, the Houthis are a relatively autonomous proxy force under Iran. But we know that Iran continues to supply them with resources, including military technology, especially missiles and drones." He added, "The Houthis are essentially a testing ground for Iran's drone warfare system," emphasizing the significant impact this type of warfare has on global shipping. The Houthis' interception of Saudi oil exports in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait follows a pattern strikingly similar to the current power struggle in the Strait of Hormuz. He pointed out, "We've noticed that in the past week, the Houthis' attacks have focused on Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline. This further clarifies the existence of some coordination between Iran and the Houthis."
