Iran-Backed Houthis Seize Yemen’s Red Sea Coast and Three Strlands
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SANA’A (Terror Monitor) — Iran-backed Houthi forces have seized Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline and three strategic islands, significantly strengthening their control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes connecting Europe and Asia.
Officials from Yemen’s Saudi-backed government said the Houthis on Friday fully captured the Yemeni coastal area around Bab al-Mandab and Mayyun Island. A government military official later said the Houthis had also taken control of the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands, the last two islands in the waterway that had remained outside their control.
According to a military official, all areas along Yemen’s western coast previously held by the government are now under Houthi control. Witnesses also reported seeing armed men and military vehicles deployed along the Bab al-Mandab coastline.
The capture of Mayyun Island, located in the middle of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, is particularly significant as it could enhance the Houthis’ ability to target Saudi oil tankers. The Houthis have been targeting Saudi tankers since July, according to AFP.
The Red Sea has become increasingly important for Saudi Arabia, one of the world’s largest oil exporters, as Iran’s months-long blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted Saudi oil shipments through the Gulf.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said that despite the latest advances, maritime traffic through Bab al-Mandab remains safe for all countries except Saudi Arabia.
More than 500 people have been killed in fighting over the past week, according to sources on both sides. The United Nations migration agency said the fighting has also displaced around 46,000 people.
The Houthis already controlled large parts of northern Yemen. During their latest offensive, they advanced toward government-held areas in Hodeidah and Taiz, capturing the port city of Mokha and Zuqar Island on Thursday.
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