125. The Origin of the Houthis

This Empire podcast episode interviews Iona Craig, an investigative journalist, about Yemen's history, culture, and the ongoing conflict involving the Houthis. The discussion traces Yemen's unification in 1990 under Ali Abdullah Saleh, highlighting his autocratic rule and the rise of the Houthi movement, a Zaydi Shia group initially opposed to Saudi influence. Craig recounts a personal assassination attempt and describes the complexities of the conflict, including the involvement of Iran and Saudi Arabia, and the devastating humanitarian consequences, such as widespread famine. The interview provides a detailed account of the political landscape, illustrating the interplay of tribal allegiances, religious factions, and international actors. A key takeaway is the devastating impact of the conflict on Yemeni civilians, exacerbated by blockades and the manipulation of aid by various parties.