Dr. Brake concludes that the attacks by the Houthis go far beyond the Gaza conflict and offer the militia considerable power-political advantages. According to Brake, they provide international visibility and domestic and foreign policy legitimacy, tapping into deeply rooted anti-Israeli and anti-Western resentment that mobilizes both Shiites and Sunnis. At the same time, they serve to stabilize the Houthis' own power base, for example through weapons, technology, and expertise from supporters such as Iran, Russia, and China. The Gaza conflict was merely the initial trigger; in fact, the Houthis are aiming for a more comprehensive conflict with the West, pressure on Europe, a weakening of regional economic structures, and strategic influence in the MENA region.
Dr. Brake emphasized that security in the Red Sea is a key long-term strategic interest for the EU and Germany. However, it can only be achieved if the power-political and economic incentives for the Houthis are systematically reduced. This requires regional partners and the use of the entire range of political and military instruments. Germany will bear a special responsibility in this regard due to its key role in the EU's ability to act.