Houthi rebels seek legitimacy as Yemen's ruling authority

Yemen's Houthi rebels have reportedly demanded $51 billion in compensation from Saudi Arabia and official recognition as Yemen's legitimate rulers in exchange for ending the war. The demand follows Riyadh's efforts to negotiate a settlement with the Iran-backed group. The Houthis are seeking compensation for years of Saudi airstrikes and a prolonged blockade, while tensions continue over Red Sea shipping routes and the strategic Bab al-Mandeb chokepoint.