Attacks by Houthi militants on shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route, once seemed like a dangerous sideshow to the war in Gaza. But as the attacks have continued, the sideshow has turned into a full-blown crisis.

Vivian Nereim, the Gulf bureau chief for The Times, explains what cause is served by the Houthis’ campaign.

Guest: Vivian Nereim, the Gulf bureau chief for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• Undeterred by strikes by American and British forces, the Houthis targeted more ships in the Red Sea.
• Washington is grappling with how to stop a battle-hardened foe from disrupting shipping lanes critical for global trade.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.