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Podcast Episode

'I saw the Houthis up close...they’re a danger to Europe' Middle Expert Warns

The Brink··3 October 2026·45 min

About this episode

Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com In this episode of The Brink, Jake is joined by Middle East security expert Michael Knights to explore how the Houthis have grown from a ragtag Yemeni militia into one of Iran’s most heavily armed regional partners. Drawing on his firsthand experience in Yemen, Michael describes the Houthis’ treatment of civilians, their military tactics and the Iranian support behind their rise. The conversation also examines the latest Houthi offensive, the threat to global shipping and Saudi oil infrastructure, and why Michael believes Europe could increasingly find itself in their sights. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 00:00 Inside The War Against The Houthis02:31 From Hezbollah Sympathiser To Houthi Expert 07:20 Why The Houthis Are More Than Underdogs 09:36 The Houthis, Iran & Ethnic Supremacy 12:42 Booby-Trapped Schools, Wells & Homes 14:40 How The Houthis Control Yemen Through Hunger 17:01 What It’s Like To Fight The Houthis 22:04 Who Are The Houthis & Where Did They Come From? 30:00 How The Houthis Learned From Hezbollah 35:33 The Houthis’ Missiles, Money & Iranian Backing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.