Yemeni Houthi Red Sea Attacks Threaten Oil and Global Markets

The largest ground offensive in recent years launched by Iran-backed Houthis along Yemen's Red Sea coast has threatened Saudi Arabia's oil exports, driven up global fuel prices, and reignited the 12-year civil war.

Critical Region Seized in the Red Sea

The Houthis captured the strategic port city of Mokha on the Red Sea coast and several islands near the Bab el-Mandeb strait. Approximately 12 percent of world trade passes through this region during peacetime.

The group's forces are positioned just 32 kilometers from Djibouti, which hosts the U.S. and other military bases.

Saudi Arabian Oil Facilities Targeted

The Houthis are launching attacks targeting Saudi Arabia's oil facilities and tankers. A pipeline attack attributed to Iran-backed militias in Iraq has deepened the kingdom's crisis.

The Saudi Arabian government reported that falling debris from an intercepted Houthi drone resulted in one death and two injuries within the kingdom.

Civil War and Humanitarian Toll

The recent clashes have caused approximately 125,000 Yemenis to flee their homes. According to UN humanitarian office data, eight civilians were killed and 32 civilians were injured in the recent fighting.

The conflict, which has caused 150,000 deaths throughout years of civil war, had pushed the country to the brink of famine. Diplomatic efforts and search for an agreement between the parties continue.

Clashes Around Marib and Taiz

Intense clashes have been taking place in recent days in and around the oil-rich city of Marib in the central region. The city serves as a military center for Saudi-backed forces.

The Houthis also continue to threaten the western city of Taiz, which has long been a front line of the conflict. The group demands the lifting of the blockade imposed on the territory they control.