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Widespread concern is growing in Yemen that the Houthis may exploit the U.S. de-escalation initiative to strengthen their military and political foothold on the ground.

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Following a series of intense U.S. airstrikes launched in mid-March targeting Houthi positions, the militias announced they would cease attacking commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

Observers argue that this apparent compliance with U.S. demands, after the severe strikes that disrupted the Houthis’ organizational structure and weapons capabilities, is causing legitimate anxiety. They stress that historically, the group has always used periods of calm to regroup and rearm.

On May 6, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the Houthi militias had expressed their willingness to cease hostilities and had surrendered, following nearly 51 days of targeted American airstrikes on their strongholds.

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Constant Vigilance Needed

Yemeni experts insist that vigilance is crucial in dealing with the Houthis’ attempts to capitalize on the U.S. military’s withdrawal from the battlefield. They argue that securing maritime routes, protecting global interests, and ensuring regional stability requires “a decisive ground operation to eliminate the Houthi threat.”

Yemeni political analyst Saleh Baras said that “the U.S. strikes taught the Houthis a lesson after taking enough blows, but they still retain the ability to maneuver.”

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He explained that “the precise American airstrikes forced the Houthis down from their ivory tower,” making them surrender under military and political pressure. However, “the truce also gives them a chance to catch their breath.”

He highlighted that the Houthis have previously used ceasefires as a consistent tactic to enhance their military capabilities and emphasized the importance of supporting anti-Houthi forces with proper equipment to dismantle the group’s strongholds and ensure regional security.

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A Step Back

Meanwhile, political analyst Bassem Al-Hakeemi stated that “the Houthis’ decision to halt operations in the Red Sea was the direct result of the American strikes that disrupted their balance and forced them to back down and accept the truce.”

He noted that “past experiences show that the Houthis always expand their influence during times of de-escalation,” pointing out that the militias try to promote false victories to maintain internal cohesion.

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He added that by exploiting the ceasefire, the Houthis aim to entrench their presence and reorganize their forces, which calls for continued military pressure, stronger diplomatic coordination, and the strictest economic sanctions.

Regarding Houthi claims of victory over the United States, which the militias propagate among their followers, Al-Hakeemi said it was in fact a “complete and unconditional surrender” after they were dealt devastating strikes that shattered their balance and destroyed most of their weapons stockpiles.

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