Has Iran Abandoned the Houthis? Experts Respond

The British newspaper The Telegraph reported, citing a senior Iranian official, that Iran had “withdrawn” its military personnel from Yemen and “abandoned” the Houthis in order to “avoid confrontation with the United States in case an Iranian soldier is killed in American strikes.” In other words, it would be a retreat from Iran’s regional proxy policy, offering this card to the U.S. to avoid severe retaliatory strikes.

• Houthis Call on the Muslim Brotherhood Regarding Syria

• Houthis Launch Ideological and Military Recruitment Campaign for Students Amid Public Outrage

However, doubts remain about Iran’s underlying intentions. This statement might be part of an ongoing psychological war or a negotiation tactic, showcasing strengths and weaknesses to invite proposals. The Houthis are considered the strongest remaining link in the Iranian axis after Hezbollah and Hamas suffered serious blows, making it illogical for Iran to discard its strongest asset.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Saleh Sedghian, Director of the Arab Center for Iranian Studies and a close observer of Tehran’s stance, told An-Nahar that The Telegraph‘s report, as phrased, is “inaccurate”. In his view, the Iranians may have sent messages to the Americans indicating that they “can contribute to enhancing regional security and stability” by offering guidance to the Houthis to reduce attacks—”without it meaning Iran is abandoning its allies.”

• Houthis Threaten Israel amid Stalled Second Round of Truce Negotiations

• Houthis Torture a Young Man to Death for Refusing to Join Their Training… Details

Ahmed Nagi, an expert on Yemeni affairs at the International Crisis Group, believes it is “illogical” for Iran to abandon the Houthis at this time, as Tehran “needs them more than ever” due to the weakened state of other axis factions. In an interview with An-Nahar, Nagi highlighted the Houthis’ “unusual effectiveness” in applying pressure that Iran needs against the U.S. and Israel, such as by disrupting maritime navigation.

Nagi noted that the Houthis play a role in “occupying” the Americans and Israelis, which could “delay” any military escalation against Iran and make them a strategic military consideration. This reality strengthens Iran’s negotiating position. Losing this card would be a “catastrophe” and would escalate both military and political pressure on Iran. Therefore, “it is unlikely” that Tehran would abandon the Houthis.

An-Nahar concluded that even if Iran were to abandon the Houthis, this would not prevent the United States or Israel from launching a military strike if they decided to do so.

• 4 Days Until the Houthis Are Designated as a Terrorist Organization… What Is the Militia’s Future?

• The Houthis Attempt to Seize Residents’ Lands in Taiz and Turn Them into Mobilization Camps

• Signs of Major Disputes between the Muslim Brotherhood and the Houthis… Details

• Trump Reclassifies the Houthis as a “Foreign Terrorist Organization,” Yemeni Government Welcomes the Move

• The Muslim Brotherhood and the Houthis: Who is blocking the Prisoner Exchange Deal?