Yemen conflict: A brief history from the Houthi takeover to the latest escalation

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group has made new military gains against the internationally recognized government, tightening control over the Red Sea coast and escalating the conflict after a period of relative calm since a 2022 UN-brokered ceasefire. The Houthis seized the Red Sea city of Mocha on September 10, expanding control over the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait. The Saudi-led coalition intercepted a missile attack targeting Riyadh, the first on the capital since July, while fierce fighting continues in Marib, Taiz, and other provinces. The Houthis also attacked Saudi oil infrastructure, pushing global oil prices above $100 per barrel. The conflict began in 2014 when the Houthis took over Sanaa, prompting Saudi military intervention in 2015. The war has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, with 22 million Yemenis now in urgent need of humanitarian aid. US officials have met Houthi representatives in Oman, with the group reportedly assuring Washington that vessels not linked to Saudi Arabia would not be targeted.