How the Houthis came out on top after Israel's multi-front war

As a fragile ceasefire takes hold in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, another military actor in the region has also apparently halted hostilities: the Houthis in Yemen.

Its leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi reportedly ordered fighters to stop the attacks on Israel and Israeli-linked ships, which the group had carried out intermittently for two years.

The halt would only hold as long as Israel continued to observe the ceasefire in Gaza, a source told Saudi media. 

That condition underscores a position of strength: the Houthis have consistently carried out attacks in solidarity with Palestinians without the need to negotiate with Israel - directly or indirectly - about a truce.

Across two years of Israeli wars in the region and the genocide in Gaza, a number of groups have taken up arms in response.

That includes Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Iran. 

All these groups, including Israel itself, have suffered immensely. The conflict has taken its toll militarily and economically, as well as in terms of devastating civilian harm.

While the war has raised existential questions around the future role of some of these groups, like Hamas and Hezbollah, the de facto government in Yemen has in fact increased in relevance. 

Its steadfastness in its attacks on Israel and international shipping, analysts have told Middle East Eye, made the world sit up and take notice, and gave the group a narrative victory both at home and abroad.

Read more: How the Houthis came out on top after Israel's multi-front war