The Geopolitics of the Yemeni Crisis

The geopolitical landscape of Yemen is complex and extends beyond its borders. This chapter examines Yemen’s civil war by focusing on both the internal and regional dimensions of that landscape. The internal dimensions of that war are based on a web of historical grievances and power struggles in which geography intersects with other factors. The analysis shows how, throughout history, the state has exploited identity divisions and fueled ethnonationalist sentiments through manipulation, extractive policies, and a mentality of revenge. Turning to the regional dynamics surrounding the Yemeni civil war, the analysis then highlights the interplay between US foreign policy shifts in the region and broader regional tensions, particularly the escalating Cold War between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Realist perspectives illuminate the strategic maneuvering of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran, driven by their geopolitical ambitions and security concerns. Although pragmatism has prevailed thus far, reconciliation and sustainable peace in Yemen remain fragile and elusive.