Yemen's Red Sea Coast and Bab el-Mandeb Strait Under Houthi Control
Iran-backed Houthi forces have taken control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline and the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising concerns for global maritime trade routes.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have rapidly advanced along Yemen's Red Sea coastline, effectively seizing control of the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait. These developments pose new threats to the global economy and energy shipments.
Rapid Advance Along the Coastline
Houthi forces completed their rapid operation to take control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline on Friday.
The rebels seized Perim Island, located in the middle of the critical Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the historic port city of Mocha in succession.
Control of Strategic Points
Following the city of Mocha, an advance was made toward the strategic coastal town of Dhubab.
It was reported that the internationally recognized Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, withdrew from Perim Island.
Global Economy and Oil Markets
Controlling Bab el-Mandeb, the transit point of the Red Sea trade route connecting Europe and Asia, could endanger oil exports.
Following the developments in Yemen and statements centered on the US and Iran, expectations for an increase in global oil prices emerged.
Regional Conflicts and Pipeline
Houthi forces and opposing coalition forces have been in a civil war since 2014.
On Friday, satellite images showed a large plume of smoke along Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline route, but no official statement came from the parties.