Houthi rebels have taken control of Perim Island and advanced toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical waterway for Saudi Arabian oil exports, according to Yemeni government sources. The group has also captured the port city of Dhubab, located along the strait, and announced full control over the area. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
The Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow passage between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, is a vital route for global trade and energy shipments. Control over the region could disrupt maritime traffic and impact regional stability. The Yemeni government has warned that the conflict could spread across the Middle East, raising concerns among neighboring countries and international observers.
Houthi forces have now secured strategic positions in the area, including the island of Mayyun, which lies at the heart of the strait. This move strengthens their influence over key maritime routes and could lead to further military operations in the region. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to assert control over critical locations.
International attention is growing as the conflict intensifies. The United States has expressed concern over the Houthi advances, highlighting the potential for broader regional instability. The situation remains under close monitoring as the conflict continues to evolve.
