The Houthis are continuing their military actions against Saudi Arabia and the United States, while internal conflicts within the anti-Houthi coalition in Yemen could affect U.S. interests in the region. Following the October 7, 2023, conflict involving Israel and Hamas, the Yemeni civil war has seen a resurgence of violence, particularly between the Southern Transitional Council (STC), backed by the United Arab Emirates, and the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), supported by Saudi Arabia. A brief war erupted late last year, resulting in the STC's dissolution under Saudi pressure, although the group remains active and continues to oppose the PLC.
Amr al Bidh, a member of the STC leadership, expressed concerns about the potential for renewed conflict within the anti-Houthi alliance, stating that while military escalation is not the current goal, it remains a possibility. Mohammed al Basha, a Yemen analyst, noted that while a new civil war between the STC and PLC is unlikely at the moment, it could become a scenario in the future.
The STC, despite its official dissolution, continues to operate and rally support, with many of its leaders in exile. The group has accused the PLC of neglecting southern Yemen and has faced increased persecution since the PLC's takeover. Protests have erupted in southern Yemen, with demonstrators expressing discontent towards Saudi Arabia's influence and the PLC's governance.
Bidh criticized the PLC's approach to the Houthis, arguing that the STC's hardline stance is more aligned with U.S. interests. He called for a comprehensive strategy to address the Houthi threat, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation and a focus on cutting off the Houthis' resources. The situation remains fluid, with the Houthis recently escalating attacks in the Red Sea, prompting renewed U.S. focus on the region.