Houthis Expand Operations in Africa, Building Weapon Smuggling Networks

A new study by the Alma Research and Education Center reveals that the Houthi movement is expanding its operations into Africa, establishing weapon smuggling networks, and strengthening ties with terrorist organizations. This expansion, particularly on the African side of the Red Sea, involves cooperation with groups like Al-Qaeda's Somalia branch and Sudanese armed forces, alongside the creation of cells for arms smuggling. The research suggests this growing presence could pose a new threat to Israel and international shipping routes in the Red Sea.

The study highlights that the Houthis' continued activity against Israel during the Gaza war, even when other "Axis of Resistance" members paused their actions, has elevated the movement's standing. However, the leader Abd al-Malik al-Houthi has not yet solidified his position as a preeminent figure within the "Axis of Resistance," unlike leaders of Iran and Hezbollah. The expansion into Africa could endanger Israeli interests and assets in the region. Furthermore, if conflict with Israel resumes, Houthi cells in countries like Sudan could intensify threats against Israeli or Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea and serve as platforms for attacks on Israel or arms transfers to Gaza.

The Houthi movement's involvement in the "Swords of Iron" war, which began after the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, started early with declarations of readiness to respond to U.S. intervention. They subsequently launched drones and missiles toward Israel and declared a blockade on Israeli ports, attacking vessels they claimed were Israeli-owned or violated the ban. Following the Gaza ceasefire in October 2025, the Houthis announced a halt to attacks on Israel and its associated shipping, though a single ballistic missile was fired in March 2026.

Iran remains the primary supporter and arms supplier for the Houthis, providing weapons and training. During the "Swords of Iron" war, significant arms smuggling from Iran to the Houthis was reported, including advanced drones and missiles. Despite this strong alliance, the Alma Center notes that Houthi relations with Iran are complex, with the Houthis demonstrating a capacity for independent action aligned with their own interests, even while acknowledging Iran's crucial role in their development. The movement also maintains ties with other "Axis of Resistance" members like Hezbollah, Iraqi pro-Iranian militias, and the Syrian regime.

The study also examines the Houthi response to Israel's recognition of Somaliland's independence in December 2025. Houthi leader Abd al-Malik al-Houthi condemned this move as an "aggressive step" and a threat to the Islamic nation, warning that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be considered a "military target." The research indicates that the Houthis have also been involved in transferring arms and equipment on behalf of Iran to Sudan since 2024, with some shipments potentially destined for Hamas. Additionally, they are reportedly strengthening ties and establishing smuggling and recruitment networks in Eritrea, Djibouti, and Ethiopia, raising concerns about a potential logistical infrastructure along the African coast of the Arabian Sea and Red Sea that could amplify threats from the Houthis, Iran, and the "Axis of Resistance."