Houthi forces have used Iranian-supported drones, missiles, and naval drones against commercial shipping, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and US-led naval forces around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb since October 2023.

The group is also increasing local production of larger components while remaining dependent on foreign suppliers for systems such as engines and guidance equipment. Together, these capabilities give the Houthis reach beyond Yemen and create a persistent security risk for a major shipping corridor, while strengthening Iran’s leverage in the region.