What would it take to defeat the Houthis, and why could the campaign last for years? On STRAT, retired Marine intelligence officer LtCol. Hal Kempfer examines the Houthi threat to Saudi Arabia and the strategic choices facing a Saudi-led coalition. He explores how Iranian-supplied drones and missiles threaten infrastructure, investment, and regional security, while assessing the potential role of international military support. Kempfer outlines a possible campaign centered on securing Yemen’s cities, ports, and transportation corridors, disrupting weapons supplies, and pressuring Houthi forces in mountainous terrain. The discussion also considers lessons from Ukraine’s evolving drone war, the importance of stronger air defenses, and the growing role of autonomous systems. Beyond battlefield operations, Kempfer examines how diplomacy, tribal alliances, and support for Yemen’s internationally recognized government could shape the outcome. Listen for an assessment of the resources, risks, and sustained commitment that campaign could demand from Saudi Arabia and its partners.

Takeaways:

• Houthi drones and missiles threaten Saudi infrastructure and investment.
• Iranian weapons supply lines represent a critical Houthi vulnerability.
• Cities, ports, and transportation corridors anchor Yemen’s strategic landscape.
• Mountainous terrain complicates military operations and Houthi supply routes.
• Ukraine’s drone war offers lessons for Saudi air defenses.
• International military support could strengthen Saudi defensive capabilities.
• Diplomacy and tribal alliances could influence the campaign’s outcome.
• Defeating the Houthis could require years of sustained commitment.

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