WSJ Report Highlights Iranian Support for Houthis Escalates in Yemen
- 2026-10-17
- 16:23:30
Tehran -- Iran is providing advanced intelligence and military assistance to Yemen's Houthi movement, including support in identifying targets for missile and drone attacks, training fighters, and offering operational guidance, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.
The report said the Iranian-backed support network has enabled the Houthis to conduct more effective operations against Yemeni government forces and the Saudi-led coalition, strengthening the group's military capabilities on multiple fronts.
According to sources cited by the newspaper, Iranian assistance contributed to rapid battlefield gains by the Houthis, helping them establish control over Yemen's coastline overlooking the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints.
The developments coincided with an escalation in attacks targeting oil tankers, critical infrastructure, and Saudi airports. The report noted that a recent strike targeting the Saudi capital, Riyadh, during the previous weekend resulted in 13 fatalities, underscoring growing regional security concerns.
Meanwhile, the coalition announced operations targeting Houthi weapons-smuggling activities by sea, as efforts continue to disrupt supply routes believed to be used for transferring military equipment into Yemen.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the level of coordination between Tehran and the Houthis reflects Iran's ability to leverage its relationships with armed groups across the region to increase pressure on the United States.
The report added that these developments come as the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to end the conflict with Iran on terms favorable to Washington.