Al Houthis threaten GCC as a whole

There is no question that the ongoing fighting with Al Houthi rebels should come to an end soon. This is being said given that the fighting should not turn into a regional war that continues endlessly. This fighting should be contained, as it has a direct effect on the stability of the Gulf region.

For months now, Yemen and Saudi Arabia have been engaged in intense fighting with Al Houthi rebels, with progress being made by the authorities on several fronts. Forces from both countries have intensified their military campaign over the past few weeks to stop any advances by the rebels.

Yet the fighting has brought about unwanted repercussions. For one thing, it has created a humanitarian crisis on the borders of the two countries as many civilians living in that area had to be evacuated for safety reasons. Although provisions have been made for the evacuees, their situation should not turn into a long-term issue.

In addition, the ongoing fighting means that a new war front has opened in the Gulf. Needless to say, the region is in no need of such turbulence, as it has had its share of wars over the past decades. Furthermore, the Gulf will always be weary of limited fighting in one area turning into a large-scale war that involves all of the countries in the region.

Within this context, the recent Gulf Cooperation Council Summit agreed to address this war as a challenge affecting all of the grouping's members. This is a welcome step as it will necessitate a joint and well-organised effort to bring an end to the fighting. But what is important here is that any resolution should promote long-term peace and stability, rather than just a temporary fix.