Houthis Seize Strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, Threatening Global Trade

Houthi rebels have completed their takeover of the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a vital global shipping lane connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, following their capture of Perim Island at the strait's center. This strategic gain significantly enhances the Houthis' ability to disrupt international commerce, extending their control over much of Yemen's Red Sea coastline. The advance south culminated in the seizure of the port city of Al Mukha, a key stronghold of opposing forces.

This development coincides with a drone attack on a major Saudi oil pipeline originating from Iraq, which Saudi authorities reported as temporarily disabled due to resulting fires. This attack, coupled with the Houthi control of Bab al-Mandeb and threats against shipping, further complicates Saudi oil exports. The pipeline had become a critical strategic asset, diverting 5 million barrels of oil daily from the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict with Iran began.

The Bab al-Mandeb strait is crucial for global supply chains, handling approximately 20% of the world's container traffic destined for the Suez Canal, and facilitating the transit of about six million barrels of oil daily, predominantly from Saudi Arabia. Houthi control of Perim Island, which divides the strait into two shipping channels, grants them enhanced operational capabilities. They can now threaten vessels with artillery and short-range weapons, in addition to missiles and drones.

An Israeli official warned that the Houthis could now "shoot at anything they want" with anti-tank missiles, having direct line of sight to ships. The official emphasized that the strait's narrowest point makes it a more immediate threat than the Strait of Hormuz, allowing for visual targeting, the deployment of explosive boats, or direct boarding operations.

The Houthi expansion occurs amidst escalating conflict with Saudi Arabia, following recent ballistic missile and drone attacks by the Houthis on Saudi cities, which reportedly injured 73 people. Saudi Arabia has requested direct U.S. intervention, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urging President Donald Trump to authorize American strikes against the Houthis. However, U.S. officials have stated there are no current plans for direct military involvement in the Yemen conflict.