Decoding the Yemen War: The Key Players Behind the Conflict

Yemen’s civil war has escalated after a separatist movement backed by the United Arab Emirates gained ground in the south, causing rifts within the Saudi-led coalition that was formed to combat the Iran-aligned Houthi group.

The conflict began in late 2014 when the Houthi movement, known as Ansar Allah, ousted the internationally recognized government led by President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The Houthis now control the capital, Sanaa, and significant areas in northern Yemen where 60% to 65% of the population resides. They are accused by the Saudi-led coalition of receiving support from Iran, which the Houthis deny, asserting their independence in weapon development.

Throughout the war, the Houthis have showcased their missile and drone capabilities, particularly in attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as targeting Israel amid the Gaza conflict.

Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to restore Hadi’s government and prevent a powerful Iran-aligned group on its border. Despite a recent improvement in relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia remains distrusting. The Southern Transitional Council (STC), formed with UAE support and led by Aidarous al-Zubaidi, seeks independence for southern Yemen, historically a separate state. Although part of the Saudi-led coalition, the STC declared self-rule in 2020, increasing tensions with Saudi Arabia.

The Yemeni Congregation for Reform, or al-Islah, is a prominent Sunni Islamist faction within the government but is viewed as a terrorist organization by the UAE and STC. The UAE, which significantly impacted the ground conflict, withdrew its troops but still influences the situation through alliances.

The Saudi-backed government, represented by the Presidential Leadership Council led by Rashad al-Alimi, faces diminished power and struggles with internal divisions. The National Resistance Forces, led by Tarek Saleh, aim to counter both the Houthis and southern separatists, seeking a unified Yemen with support from Saudi Arabia.