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Trump's possible regional Collaboration in Middle East Amid Houthi Agression

Analytics - 7 month ago

Trump's Administration Strategy to Enhance Regional and Local Cooperation Against Houthi Terrorist Activities

South Eye | Analysis

A report published by The National Interest sheds light on the Trump administration’s strategy in the Middle East, emphasizing Senator Marco Rubio’s sharp criticism of President Biden's approach to the Houthi rebellion in the region. Specifically, Rubio highlighted the administration's noticeable lack of decisive military action and limited support for regional allies. Rubio's argument suggests that under the Trump administration, U.S. policy toward the Houthis would likely undergo a significant shift, emphasizing robust military and strategic support to combat the group.

Rubio’s op-ed indicates that a Trump administration would adopt an aggressive stance toward the Houthi insurgency. Key components of this strategy would likely include:

Enhanced Targeting of Houthi Leadership and Infrastructure

Rubio criticized Biden for restricting strikes to drone launch sites and unused depots, implying that the Trump administration would authorize comprehensive strikes on senior Houthi leadership and critical military infrastructure. Such targeting would aim to weaken the Houthis' operational capabilities and deter their regional aggression, as Trump’s foreign policy record suggests strong alliances with Gulf allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Rubio's mention of expanded military and logistical assistance indicates these nations could expect bolstered support for airstrikes and ground operations against the Houthis. This support could include advanced weaponry, intelligence sharing, and specialized training. Furthermore the op-ed also highlights the potential for governance and military assistance to local Yemeni factions aligned with the Presidential Leadership Council and the Southern Transitional Council (STC). These forces could play a central role in stabilizing the south and countering Houthi influence in critical areas.

Moreover the Southern Transitional Council (STC) emerges as a pivotal partner in this potential strategy for several reasons:

Geostrategic Importance:

The STC governs areas in southern Yemen, including Aden and other vital coastal regions. These areas are critical for securing maritime routes in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which are frequently threatened by Houthi activities. Supporting the STC strengthens security in these areas, especially as the STC has demonstrated effectiveness in securing land from terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda, also STC’s goals align with the Trump administration’s likely focus on countering Iranian influence and ensuring regional stability. As a legitimate representative of self-governance in southern Yemen, the STC provides a reliable partner for governance and security, particularly in countering Houthi aggressions in maritime corridors & beyond.

Local Governance and Military Capability:

Rubio’s op-ed acknowledges the need for governance on the ground to effectively counter the Houthis. The STC, with its administrative structures and local support, is well-positioned to provide a counterbalance to Houthi control in the north. Additionally, the STC’s military capabilities—particularly through its counter-terrorism forces and other military brigades—make it a dependable ally for joint operations against the Houthis. Enhanced U.S. and Gulf support in terms of training, logistics, and intelligence could significantly amplify these efforts.

As Rubio’s criticism of Biden underscores the potential for a Trump administration to adopt a proactive and decisive approach against the Houthis. By intensifying strikes, strengthening regional alliances, and expanding partnerships with local actors like the STC, this strategy could significantly shift the balance of power in the region which benefit its stability.

The geostrategic location of the STC, coupled with its governance capabilities and military strength, positions it as a cornerstone of this approach. However, the success of such a policy would hinge on addressing humanitarian concerns, managing complex local dynamics, and mitigating international criticism, particularly from Russia, China, and possibly the European Union.

Ultimately, the potential actions of a Trump administration, as articulated by Rubio, would reflect a broader vision to enhance U.S. influence in the region, confront Iran’s proxies, and protect vital international waterways.