One can only approach the situation in Yemen by understanding the stakes and objectives of the parties involved, as well as by looking at the latest changes in the country as part of the chaotic political and military developments of the region. Based on local and regional factors, one can understand the complicated Yemeni situation without attempting to explain the political events in Yemen through the sectarian vision.

The political map in Yemen changed following the youth revolution in February 2011. Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, who ruled Yemen for 33 years until February 2012, was forced to leave office in the framework of the Gulf Initiative, which was seen as a Saudi initiative on a wider scale since the Saudi crown prince was present when the Yemeni parties signed it.

One can say that Saleh stepped down because of the increasing popular protests, the worsening economic situation and the support for the revolution by a number of Yemeni tribal sheikhs, such as Amin al-Akimi, head of the Bakil tribe conference, and Hashed tribal federation Sheikh Sadiq al-Ahmar. This created divisions within the tribes rather than fully mobilizing them with the revolution, as was expected. Although Saleh has stepped down, he remains involved in the political scene amid his alliance with the Houthis, to confront opponents from his presidential days, especially from the Ahmar family.

Thus, the Yemeni political scene is more complicated than it might seem at first glance. However, there is no doubt that the changes in Yemen occurred in light of the regression of interests of Saudi Arabia’s traditional allies such as the Ahmar family, while the Houthis still advanced — especially Ansar Allah, the military wing of the Houthi movement, which has close ties to Iran. This has resulted in further complications, making Yemen a platform for regional conflicts, now more than ever.