Barran Press
A report from the United Nations Security Council's panel of experts on Yemen has refuted claims by the Houthi movement, classified as a terrorist organization, that it possesses the capability for local military production without external support.
Published last Thursday, the annual report indicates that the group relies on foreign assistance to develop a range of military assets, including short and medium-range ballistic missiles, ground-attack cruise missiles, anti-ship guided missiles, surface-to-air missiles, drones, and portable air defense systems.
The experts noted significant similarities between the armaments operated by the Houthis and those produced by Iran or armed groups affiliated with the so-called "Axis of Resistance," suggesting that these weapons were likely not developed by the Houthis themselves.
The report highlighted a notable overlap between the documented armaments and those produced by Iran, identifying 53 types of equipment used by the Houthis that resemble those operated by armed groups in Iraq, Lebanon, occupied Palestine, Bahrain, and Somalia.
The experts also referenced a "massive" military parade conducted by the Houthis in Sana'a on September 21, 2023, which showcased new weaponry compared to the previous year's display. This included two models of medium-range ballistic missiles, a new type of ground-attack cruise missile, anti-ship cruise missiles, long-range guided missiles, attack drones, electro-optical surveillance systems, fast attack boats, and armored vehicles.
Additionally, the report discussed past statements by Iranian military leaders, including First General Rustam Qasemi, who acknowledged the presence of Iranian military advisors in Yemen and the transfer of Iranian weapon technology. Other Iranian officials have also mentioned providing technical expertise to the Houthis.
On June 25, 2024, the Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack on the ship MSC Sarah V in the Arabian Sea using a new missile, later identified as the Houthi "Hatem-2," which they claimed was manufactured in Yemen. The experts noted that this missile bears a resemblance to the Iranian Khyber Shekan missile.
The report pointed to the significant role of First General Abdul Reza Shahlai from Iran's Quds Force, and his deputy, a senior member of Hezbollah, in the command structure of the Houthis, advising Abdul Malik al-Houthi on strategic and military activities.
The panel of experts, consisting of five members appointed by the UN Secretary-General, is tasked with assisting the Security Council in implementing sanctions related to the Yemeni conflict and investigating violations of international law by all parties involved.