Report: Iran Is Moving Into Africa

The Houthis—Iran’s Yemen-based terrorist proxy—are increasing their influence in the Horn of Africa and Sudan, Ynetnews said on Sunday.

Why it matters: If Iran gains a foothold in the Horn of Africa and Sudan, it will not only put its forces closer to Israel but also give it greater power in the Red Sea. This will pose an economic threat to Europe and the rest of the world.

Horn of Africa: The Horn of Africa lies west of Yemen and is made up of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia. This strategic area abuts the Red Sea, which ties into the Nile River.

The Houthis are gaining influence there by cooperating with Sunni terrorist groups in the region.

• The Houthis are working with al-Shabaab—an al Qaeda affiliate—and the Islamic State, Iran’s traditional enemy.

Sudan: Sudan is also on the Red Sea. Iran is establishing influence on the winning side of Sudan’s civil war. Eritrea is aiding Iran’s attempt. It’s likely the Houthis are working here as well.

A Houthi foothold in Sudan would bring Iran’s missiles much closer to Israel and give it greater control over the Nile River, Egypt’s lifeline.

“Axis of Resistance 2.0”: After Bashar Assad’s fall, Iran looked like it had lost its grip over Syria, Gaza and Lebanon. It lost its “axis of resistance,” an informal coalition including Iraq, Syria and Lebanon.

But Iran has simply refocused on Africa. Danny Citrinowicz, researcher at the Institute for National Strategic Studies, called the Houthis’ work in Africa Iran’s “axis of resistance 2.0,” saying, “Africa is now part of the story—and the Houthis are a key force in building up Iranian-aligned capabilities across the continent.”

Through Africa, Iran has the potential to regain a considerable amount of the power it has lost.

• If Iran controls the Nile, it could use it to take over Egypt. Iranian influence in Egypt would also solidify its control in Libya and Ethiopia.
• Russia and Europe are being pushed out of Africa, giving Iran the opportunity to move in.

Prophesied influence: Ynetnews said analysts called Iran’s recent exploits in Africa “unexpected.” But Trumpet readers have expected this for decades. After Syria’s fall, the Trumpet said Iran was not finished but would move into Africa.

This is because the Bible prophesies Iran’s control over certain African nations. Houthi exploits in Africa show how this prophecy is coming to pass.

Learn more: Read our free booklet The King of the South.