The Gulf has entered a new era of instability. If its leaders think they can rely on old alliances, they are wrong
The latest attack by Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia may prove to be more calamitous for the region than the world imagines
TL;DR
- A recent Houthi attack on Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, resulted in significant casualties, marking a major escalation in regional conflict.
- The Gulf region is experiencing a new and irreversible era of instability, with a gradual erosion of peace and security.
- Attacks by Iran, Israel, and now the Houthis have targeted critical infrastructure, disrupting economies and social life.
- The integration of Gulf countries into the international community for tourism and business is threatened by ongoing hostilities.
- The Yemen civil war has intensified due to strategic opportunities created by the war against Iran, with Houthis advancing to control key maritime straits.
- The Houthis have domestic ambitions and regional animosities, particularly against Saudi Arabia, and claim their attacks are a response to Saudi actions.
- The region's instability is partly a consequence of Hamas's attacks on Israel and the subsequent conflict in Gaza, as well as a perceived reduction in US security commitment to its Gulf allies.
- Saudi Arabia faces a long and difficult war with the Houthis, who are willing to sustain high levels of pain, with little prospect of a decisive outcome.
- The region is caught between outdated alliances and new hostilities, leading to significant loss of life and capital.