Yemen's Houthi Rebels Seize Strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Houthi rebels in Yemen have completed their takeover of the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait, a vital global shipping lane, after capturing Perim Island (also known as Mayun) and reaching the coastal town of Dubab. Yemeni government officials confirmed the rebels' full control on Friday.

The Houthis also seized Perim Island, from which government forces had withdrawn. Earlier Friday, sources aligned with the Iran-backed axis reported that the Houthis had renewed attacks against the Yemeni army, launching rocket fire in the Al-Ara region of southwestern Yemen.

This development has raised significant security concerns. An Israeli official warned of dramatic consequences, stating that the Houthis could now target ships with anti-tank missiles and "see the ships with their own eyes." The official highlighted the difference between the Bab el-Mandeb strait and the Strait of Hormuz, which currently draws more international attention.

According to the Israeli official, the rebels' new geographic position offers them a much simpler and more convenient attack capability than their patrons in Tehran, without needing advanced technological systems. "They will simply see the ships with their eyes, be able to launch explosive boats or take control of them. This is a huge drama that gives immense power to the terror organization."