Houthi rebels have intensified their control over critical maritime routes in the Red Sea, seizing a strategic island at the southern entrance of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The move, confirmed by Yemeni officials, marks a significant territorial gain for the Iran-backed group, expanding their influence in the region. The island, located near the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is a key point for maritime traffic and could disrupt oil exports from Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis have also expelled Saudi-backed forces from six districts, according to their military spokesperson. This comes as the group continues to target Saudi infrastructure, with recent attacks on an oil pipeline causing fires. Saudi officials have linked these strikes to Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, suggesting a coordinated effort to escalate regional tensions.
The expansion of Houthi control has raised concerns about the stability of global oil supplies. Analysts warn that the group’s growing presence in the strait could lead to further disruptions, impacting international trade and energy markets. The situation remains volatile as the conflict between regional powers continues to evolve.
The international community is closely monitoring the developments, with some Gulf states calling for increased security measures in the area. The Houthis have not yet commented on the strategic implications of their latest gains, but their actions continue to shape the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
