Houthi drone technology and maritime incidents rise near Strait of Hormuz

Evidence suggests the Houthi militia continues to receive Iranian technology and components to bolster its military capabilities. Analysis of Houthi-released footage reveals significant similarities between the group’s ‘Rajoum’ multi-rotor drones and Iranian ‘Houdhoud 4’ models used by the Revolutionary Guard. These drones have evolved from reconnaissance tools into offensive platforms capable of carrying multiple bombs to strike military and civilian targets.

In the maritime sector, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that 68 incidents have occurred near the Strait of Hormuz during the six months of conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. These incidents have resulted in at least 20 deaths and 35 injuries among sailors and port workers. Approximately 47 of these incidents were classified as attacks by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

While maritime incidents temporarily decreased during peace talks between the U.S. and Iran in mid-2026, the frequency of attacks has risen again following the collapse of those negotiations. Vessels flying the Liberian flag have been most frequently targeted, followed by ships from Panama and the Marshall Islands.