Yemen's Houthis Expand Control Near Vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Threatening Israel

The Houthi movement in Yemen has significantly expanded its control along the western coast of Yemen, bringing them closer to establishing physical control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This development poses a new and elevated threat to Israel, moving beyond long-range missile attacks to potentially controlling a critical global maritime route. According to media reports cited by Maariv, Houthi forces recently captured Perim Island (also known as Mayon) in the central part of the strait and reached the Dhubab region on the Yemeni coast. The port city of Al Mocha also recently fell under Houthi control.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, providing access to the Indian Ocean. A substantial portion of global maritime trade passes through this area, meaning the Houthi's strengthened position could create serious risks for commercial shipping. Israel is closely monitoring the situation, with primary concerns focusing on increased pressure on merchant ships and tankers, and the potential for restricted navigation in the Red Sea.

Israeli military officials are observing Houthi actions and assessing the evolving situation. Recent statements from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) leadership, including Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and Navy Commander Eyal Harel, have emphasized Israel's readiness to counter threats from distant maritime directions. The Houthi advance towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait represents a new challenge, as the group aims to secure a position directly adjacent to this strategic maritime chokepoint, rather than solely maintaining the capability for distant strikes.