Recent developments in the Gulf and the Horn of Africa have placed renewed attention on the activities of Yemen’s Houthi movement.

A recent Houthis video titled “Soon” was released over the weekend, following news about the US sending a carrier strike group towards the Gulf as tensions with Iran rise.

The video clearly indicates that the group may be preparing to resume operations against vessels if an international political conflict in the area renews.

Earlier in November, the Houthis announced that they would suspend attacks on commercial shipping. Their most recent confirmed action was on 29 September last year, when the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht was targeted.

Parallel to this, the group’s leader addressed a separate issue in a televised speech broadcast by Al Masirah TV. He stated that the group is “serious” about striking any Israeli military presence in Somaliland.

His remarks followed Israel’s announcement on 26 December 2025 that it had formally recognised Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. Israel is the only country to have taken this position.

The recognition prompted strong criticism across the region, with opponents describing the decision as illegal and a danger to international peace and security.