Houthi Militia Offers Suspended US Students a Place to Study Amid Gaza Protests

As the Gaza conflict enters its seventh month, Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi militia has extended a surprising offer to US university students suspended for participating in anti-Israeli protests. Dozens of campuses across the United States have seen demonstrations, with students demanding action from President Joe Biden to halt the bloodshed in Gaza and urging schools to divest from companies supporting Israel's government.

Why this matters: The Houthi militia's offer highlights the global implications of the Gaza conflict, which is not only a regional issue but also has far-reaching consequences for international relations and global security. As the conflict continues to escalate, it may lead to further polarization and tensions between nations, with potential repercussions for global stability.

Sanaa University, run by the Houthis, issued a statement applauding the students' "humanitarian position" and inviting those affected to continue their studies in Yemen. "We are serious about welcoming students that have been suspended from US universities for supporting Palestinians," an official at the university told Reuters. "We are fighting this battle with Palestine in every way we can."

The university's board also condemned the "suppression of freedom of expression" faced by academics and students in US and European universities. Over 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested during the protests at more than 40 colleges since mid-April. Many universities, such as Ivy League Columbia University in New York City, have called in police to quell the demonstrations.

The Houthis, who claim to be Yemen's legitimate government, have been attacking ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November in support of Gaza. They have targeted Israeli-linked vessels in response to the offensive against the Palestinian enclave and have also struck ships connected to owners or operators in the UK and US following airstrikes by those countries on Houthi positions.

The attacks have seriously disrupted vital global shipping routes through the Suez Canal between Asia and Europe. In response, the US and Britain have redesignated the Houthi militia as a terrorist group this year. The Houthis have vowed to continue their campaign until Israel halts its assault on Gaza.

The Houthis' offer to suspended US students has sparked a wave of skepticism and sarcasm on Yemeni social media. Many expressed doubts about the practicality of American students studying in war-torn Yemen, with some posting humorous comments and images mocking the idea. However, the gesture underscores the Houthis' commitment to standing with Palestinians as the Gaza conflict rages on with no end in sight.

Key Takeaways

• Houthis offer education to US students suspended for anti-Israeli protests.
• Students from 40+ US colleges arrested for protesting Gaza conflict.
• Houthis attack ships in Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in support of Gaza.
• US and UK redesignate Houthis as terrorist group due to ship attacks.
• Houthis vow to continue campaign until Israel halts Gaza assault.