Why Are We Engaged in Conflict in Yemen- Unraveling the Complexities of the Yemeni War
Why are we fighting in Yemen? This question has been on the minds of many around the world as the conflict in Yemen rages on. The war, which began in 2015, has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, causing untold suffering and loss of life. In this article, we will explore the various reasons behind the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the complexities that have made it one of the most protracted and devastating conflicts of our time.
The roots of the conflict in Yemen can be traced back to the Arab Spring in 2011, when widespread protests against the rule of President Ali Abdullah Saleh led to his resignation. The subsequent power vacuum allowed Houthi rebels, who are a Shia minority group in Yemen, to seize control of the capital, Sanaa, and much of the north of the country. This action sparked a complex web of alliances and conflicts, with various regional and international actors becoming involved.
One of the primary reasons why we are fighting in Yemen is the regional proxy conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Saudi Arabia, a Sunni-majority country, views the Houthis as proxies of Iran, which is a Shia nation. This regional rivalry has intensified the conflict, with both countries providing support to opposing sides in Yemen. Saudi Arabia, along with its allies, has launched a military campaign against the Houthis, while Iran has supplied them with weapons and military advisors.
Another factor contributing to the ongoing conflict is the struggle for power within Yemen itself. The Houthis, who seek to establish a more autonomous and Shia-dominated state, are in conflict with the Yemeni government, which is backed by the United Arab Emirates and supported by the United States. The Yemeni government, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, is fighting to regain control of the country and restore its authority.
The humanitarian consequences of the conflict are staggering. Yemen is facing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with millions of people facing severe food shortages, malnutrition, and disease. The war has also led to a breakdown in infrastructure, with hospitals, schools, and water systems destroyed or damaged. The United Nations has described the situation in Yemen as a “catastrophe,” with the risk of famine and disease outbreaks looming large.
Furthermore, the conflict has raised concerns about the proliferation of weapons and the threat of terrorism. The Houthis have been accused of using improvised explosive devices and engaging in attacks against civilians, while Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has taken advantage of the chaos to strengthen its presence in the country. The conflict has also created a fertile ground for the spread of other extremist groups, posing a threat to regional and international security.
In conclusion, the reasons why we are fighting in Yemen are multifaceted and deeply rooted in regional and internal political dynamics. The proxy conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the power struggle within Yemen, the humanitarian crisis, and the threat of terrorism all contribute to the complexity of the situation. As the conflict continues to escalate, it is crucial for the international community to work towards a peaceful resolution that addresses the root causes of the conflict and promotes stability and security in Yemen.
