Entity: HOUTHIS
The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi revivalist and Islamist political and military organization in Yemen. They control significant parts of the country and have been engaged in a civil war for over a decade.
HOUTHIS
Etymology
From Arabic الْحُوثِيّ (al-ḥūṯiyy), derived from the name of the group's former commander, Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, ultimately from the village of حُوث (ḥūṯ) in western central Yemen.
Definition
A member of a militant Shiite Muslim group based in Yemen, known as Ansar Allah, with significant control over parts of the country and involvement in the Yemeni civil war.
Historical Context
The Houthi movement emerged in the 1990s as a Zaydi revivalist and Islamist political and military organization in Yemen. They have been involved in a prolonged civil war and control key areas of the country, including the capital, Sanaa.
Cultural Significance
The Houthi movement is predominantly made up of Zaydis and has garnered support from Iran, while facing opposition from Saudi Arabia and its allies. Their control over Yemen has led to regional tensions and conflicts.
Related Concepts
- Zaydi Islam
- Yemen Civil War
- Ansar Allah
See Also
A militant Shiite Muslim group based in Yemen, known for their control over parts of the country and involvement in the Yemeni civil war.