UPSC Notes

Yemen Civil War

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

UPSC examines ongoing international conflicts for their causes, actors, humanitarian impact, and geopolitical consequences, including effects on global trade, energy security, and regional stability in the Middle East.

The Yemen Civil War is an ongoing multi-sided conflict that began in 2014, primarily between the internationally recognized Yemeni government, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and the Houthi movement, supported by Iran. It is often viewed as a proxy conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran, with significant regional and international implications.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Main Actors

Houthi rebels (Iran-backed) vs. Yemeni government (Saudi-led coalition-backed).

Strategic Importance

Conflict impacts critical maritime routes like the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and global oil supplies.

Humanitarian Crisis

One of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with widespread displacement, famine, and casualties.

Ceasefire Breakdown

A 2022 UN-brokered ceasefire largely halted fighting but has recently broken down, leading to renewed escalation.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternational Relations

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
United Nations (UN)Mediates ceasefires, provides humanitarian aid, monitors conflict
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Statement-based questions

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Quick revision

  • Proxy conflict: Iran (Houthis) vs. Saudi Arabia (Yemeni Govt).
  • Impacts Bab el-Mandeb Strait & global oil.
  • Major humanitarian crisis (displacement, famine).
  • UN efforts for ceasefire and aid.
  • Escalation threatens regional stability.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

International Relations

Fighting in Yemen intensifies, Houthis launch more attacks on Saudi Arabia

14 Sep 2026 · The Yemen Civil War is a complex proxy conflict between Iran-backed Houthis and the Saudi-backed government, causing a severe humanitarian crisis and impacting global energy security and maritime trade routes like Bab el-Mandeb.

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Related topics

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Yemen Civil War in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Yemen Civil War

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