Yemen Houthis and Trump, a difficult scenario ?
As Donald Trump prepares for a potential return to the White House in January 2025, concerns regarding his foreign policy, particularly towards the Middle East, are rising. Expected to support Israel and adopt a hardline stance against Iran, Trump will inherit a complex situation in Yemen, worsened by the Houthis’ strengthened military capabilities. The Biden administration’s recent airstrikes and coalition efforts to protect Red Sea shipping against Houthi attacks reflect a reversal of previous policies that sought to ease tensions. While Trump may pursue a “maximum pressure” strategy against the Houthis and Iran, concerns arise about humanitarian implications for Yemen.
The Gulf Cooperation Council states, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, may have new expectations, balancing their ties with Iran and responding to U.S. policies. The Houthis, emboldened by their military advancements, pose ongoing threats to regional stability, leaving Trump’s specific approach uncertain.
Key points:
- Trump’s return may lead to renewed support for Israel and a hardline approach to Iran.
- The Houthis have gained military strength and popularity in Yemen, complicating U.S. policy.
- Biden’s previous efforts to ease tensions in Yemen have shifted back to military action against the Houthis.
- Gulf states are cautious about escalating conflicts, preferring to manage ties with Iran while supporting U.S. initiatives.
- The humanitarian crisis in Yemen could worsen under a strict U.S. policy towards the Houthis.
Key Questions
- What is Trump’s expected foreign policy approach regarding Yemen and the Houthis?
Trump is likely to adopt a hardline stance against the Houthis, possibly designating them as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and implementing sanctions to isolate them.
- How has U.S. policy towards the Houthis changed under Biden?
Biden initially sought to ease tensions by suspending arms sales to Saudi Arabia and lifting the Houthis’ terrorist designation but has since reverted to military actions against them.
- What implications could Trump’s policies have on humanitarian aid in Yemen?
A stringent approach may hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid, exacerbating the dire conditions faced by the Yemeni population amid ongoing conflict.
- How might Gulf states react to Trump’s renewed presidency?
Gulf states like Saudi Arabia and the UAE may balance their expectations for U.S. support with their recent rapprochement with Iran, aiming to avoid being drawn into a larger regional conflict.
So many things to be fixed by this new administration…
