In brief
Yemen’s Iran‑backed Houthi forces have reportedly taken control of Mokha, a vital Red Sea port close to the Bab al‑Mandab strait. The move places the Houthis nearer to the maritime chokepoint that funnels oil from the Gulf of Aden into the wider world. Over the past week, the offensive has caused hundreds of deaths and displaced thousands, while escalating attacks on Saudi infrastructure has spurred a surge in global oil prices. Analysts warn that the capture may destabilize regional trade routes and herald wider conflict, threatening global economic stability.
In a dramatic turn of events, Yemen’s Iran‑backed Houthi movement reportedly seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha from Saudi‑backed pro‑government forces, according to military sources.
Mokha sits just north of the Bab al‑Mandab strait, a critical chokepoint that channels millions of barrels of oil each day. By controlling the port, the Houthis gain leverage over maritime traffic to the Gulf of Aden.
The offensive began a week ago, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. Meanwhile, the Houthi campaign has triggered more aggressive missile and drone raids on Saudi borders, inflaming tensions and pushing global oil prices higher.
The seizure underscores the volatility of the Red Sea corridor and hints at possible cascading effects on regional stability. Analysts warn that a wider conflict could further disrupt oil flows and destabilize already fragile economies.
