By: Hussein Alwaday*

Houthis, which are part of the "Hashmite elite," have never been marginalized in the past or excluded from power. Their core goal is to reclaim what they believe is the divine right of the Hashemite dynasty (Prophet Mohammed's descendant) to rule and control Yemenis. Consequently, the Houthis distance themselves from Zaidis and other Yemenis, considering themselves superior, while viewing all other Yemenis as inferior, who must surrender to their authority to become true believers. 
Throughout old and modern history, they always get their share of power and wealth, which was not enough based on their supremacist ideology.

The regime the Houthis are establishing right now in Yemen is, therefore, an #apartheid regime based on the racist ideology of Hashemite supremacy. 
In this ideology, Yemenis have no political or civic rights but are expected to follow and obey the orders of the dynasty chosen by God.
Mixed marriage is not welcomed in this regime and government positions are reserved exclusively for the superior group. Yemenis have no right to education, health, movement, religion, expression. Yemenis have two options (obey or die).

• Iranianization of Houthis is real. Contrary to earlier Western perceptions of weak Iranian influence over the Houthis, concrete evidence proves a strong Houthi alignment with #Iran’s interest. The Houthis demonstrate a readiness to risk everything, underscoring their profound commitment to satisfying both their ideological and military provider. Addressing the challenge of Iran becomes critical while mitigating the Houthis risks on the international security.
• They are war criminals.           Western narratives often overlook Houthi crimes and violations against Yemenis. However, the actions committed by the Houthis can be compared to the #Israeli #genocide against Palestinians.
   Considering the Houthis as a Yemeni actor doesn't warrant a blank check and doesn’t justify the Western tendency to normalize their crimes.

• The #Houthis are a #death_cult and a death-loving group, continually celebrating the increased death toll among their fighters as an achievement. They create a narrative to make Yemenis proud of desiring death and cherishing martyrdom, presenting it as one of their significant accomplishments.
• They are fascists who believe in lasting war against almost everyone. The Houthi ideology shares striking similarities with #Nazi ideology (Hashemite supremacy, the lasting war doctrine, and the call for the genocide of Jews). Notably, the adoption of the Nazi salute (a gesture involving extending the right arm straight into the air from the shoulder) by the Houthis adds an intriguing dimension. It is the gesture that Houthis are currently using in their military circles and political gatherings.
• The key strategy of the Houthis is that they don’t have much to lose if they cross the red lines. The only way to make them face significant losses is to adopt a broader strategy than just air strikes. How?! This is another elaborated discussion.

* Hussein Alwaday is Yemeni writer and human rights activist