Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hamas: The Shifting Sands in the Middle East

The regional landscape has once again emerged as a key focal point, continuing the reshaping of the new Middle East from Gaza to Yemen, passing through Lebanon and Syria. After U.S. President Donald Trump launched the largest American military operation in the Middle East since his return to the White House—targeting the Houthis—the ceasefire in Gaza, which had been in place since January 19, quickly unraveled following extensive airstrikes on the region.

This escalation prompted the Houthis to condemn the resumption of hostilities in Gaza, issuing a threat to "resume their operations against Israeli ships in the Red Sea and off the coast of Yemen." Such a menace signals the potential for a reversal of recent progress and foreshadows further dramatic developments, which are now unfolding across all fronts, including Lebanon.

The developments in the Red Sea, coinciding with the U.S. designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization, carry two important messages. The first is aimed directly at the Houthis themselves, serving as a warning to deter attacks on maritime traffic and ensure the continued safety of shipping routes. The second message is aimed squarely at Iran, signaling that the U.S. will not hesitate to use force to weaken Iran’s influence, thus paving the way for a diplomatic settlement in the nuclear talks.

Observers argue that the Houthis’ actions, particularly in light of these recent developments, reflect growing American and international pressure on Hezbollah to disarm, thus facilitating the full implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 across Lebanon. This resolution is inextricably tied to the provision of financial aid for Lebanon’s reconstruction.

In this context, a political source with direct knowledge of the situation told Kataeb.org that there is a clear international agenda to dismantle Iran's proxies throughout the region. This plan began with Hamas, moved on to Hezbollah, and now targets the Houthis, with the goal of neutralizing their military capabilities. The broader strategy seeks to encircle Iran and strip it of its negotiating leverage, thereby forcing Tehran to either accept American terms or face military action.

The source further suggested that Hamas is likely heading toward a political and military withdrawal from Gaza, while Hezbollah is expected to retreat into a prolonged period of rebuilding and reorganization. Iran, fully aware of the dire nature of the situation, is gradually leaning toward negotiations, especially after losing the Syrian front. With the Houthis now targeted, Iran has effectively lost its last bargaining chip.

This is an English adaptation of an Arabic article by Julie Majdalani.