The Houthis and Al-Qaeda, despite their ideological differences as Shiite and Sunni Salafi organizations respectively, are operating in close geographical proximity. Despite recent setbacks, with the death of a senior leader, AQAP may be gaining strength through support from the Houthis. This raises concerns about their potential to carry out major attacks. The Houthis may be leveraging this partnership to establish themselves as a significant regional player.
Surprisingly, these two groups have been seen cooperating, with speculation that Iran may be sponsoring Al-Qaeda. This raises concern in the West amid involvement in the region due to the conflict in Gaza. There is fear in Britain of potential attacks by Al-Qaeda on Western forces in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
AQAP, affiliated with Al-Qaeda, is considered a dangerous global terrorist organization by the US. The new connection with the Houthis could benefit them by increasing pressure on the transitional government and diverting attention from the Houthis. This collaboration may indicate a change in AQAP’s abilities and ambitions.
In conclusion, the cooperation between the Houthis and Al-Qaeda has implications for the region and beyond. It will be important to monitor the evolving dynamics between these two groups and their impact on regional security.