The Islamic State Gains Momentum in Yemen

The self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for a series of suicide bombings in the Yemeni port city of Aden on October 6. The attacks, which targeted a hotel housing officials from the country’s exiled government and buildings being used by Saudi-led coalition troops, were the largest in the city by the group since it began operating in Yemen last year. The Islamic State reportedly carried out another attack on a mosque in Sana’a on the same day. The collapse of the Yemeni state and subsequent fighting between the Arab coalition and the Houthi rebels has diverted attention from both Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Al-Qaeda, which is exploiting the conflict to take control of territory, poses a greater threat than the Islamic State at this time. However, if recent attacks are any indication, the Islamic State is gaining momentum in Yemen.

Although the Islamic State made clear its intentions to attack Yemen in the later half of 2014, the collapse of President Abdu Rabbu Mansour Hadi’s government earlier this year pushed any fears or concerns about the Islamic State to the back burner. The Islamic State’s affiliate in Yemen first targeted Shia mosques in Sana’a on March 20, marking the deadliest terrorist attack in Yemen’s history. In June, the IS claimed responsibility for a series of car bombings targeting mosques and the headquarters of Houthi rebels. These attacks resulted in the deaths of over 30 people. Another IS bombing on a mosque in Sana’a killed at least 25 people on the first day of Eid.

So how much of a threat does the Islamic State pose to the future security and stability of Yemen? The Islamic State’s current strategy to establish itself in Yemen involves driving sectarian tensions. By carrying out attacks on both sides, IS is playing the Houthi rebels and supporters of President Hadi against each other, thereby contributing to the deterioration of the security situation in Yemen. The Islamic State has a vested interest in exploiting the conflict and ensuring its longevity. While the group continues to expand its influence in the country, both sides remain too preoccupied fighting each other to take notice.

The response of both sides to IS attacks demonstrates that this strategy is an effective one. Days after the attacks in March, Saudi Arabia began its bombing campaign to restore President Hadi to power and disrupt the Houthi advance. The bombings in June came directly on the heels of ceasefire negotiations between representatives of Houthi rebels and Hadi’s government, indicating a possible desire to inflame tensions and disrupt these efforts. Following the most recent bombings in Aden, Yemeni officials were quick to blame the Houthis and their allies, stating that the incident was a rebel rocket attack. This directly contradicted the IS claim of responsibility posted online, which included names and pictures of four alleged assailants.

In light of this recent wave of bombings, the Yemeni government has vowed to remain in Aden. An official statement issued following the attacks noted that the Yemeni government “insists on continuing its national and historical role during this exceptional phase from the temporary capital Aden until all parts of the country are liberated.” Although the Islamic State does not have a strong presence in Yemen as of yet, the persistence of the conflict will undoubtedly contribute to their growth within the country.