Yemen Analysts Warn of Iranian Control Over Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Former Houthi representative Ali al-Bukhaiti and a prominent Yemeni analyst, identified only as 'H.', have warned of escalating Iranian influence and new risks following the Houthi takeover of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical global shipping route. Al-Bukhaiti stated that Houthi control over the strait signifies Iran's control over another vital waterway, enabling them to "strangle the global economy" and exert pressure on the US administration for a favorable agreement.

The analyst 'H.' emphasized the "very clear Iranian support" for the Houthis' actions, asserting that without it, they could not have seized the strait. This support includes military aid from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iranian specialists in Sana'a, and assistance with missile launches and military planning, which have allowed the Houthis to threaten shipping and blockade Saudi Arabia.

Both analysts believe this development is detrimental to the global economy and should concern not only Saudi Arabia but also Israel. Al-Bukhaiti suggested that Houthi control will enhance their ability to confront Israel and facilitate further Iranian arms shipments and support from other global powers like China and Russia. He predicted that the Houthis would quickly move to block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait during any future conflict involving Iran and the US, or between Israel and the Palestinians.

Al-Bukhaiti further elaborated that the Houthis aim to become a regional power by extorting passage fees from ships transiting the strait, which would provide them with substantial revenue and bolster their military capabilities. He urged the US to be concerned about the growing Iranian influence and the continuous flow of Iranian weapons and specialists into the region, intended to compensate for Iran's losses in the Strait of Hormuz.

Regarding Saudi Arabia, the crisis is seen as another instance where the US has not supported them at a critical moment. Al-Bukhaiti expressed hope that following the US midterm elections, the American president would take steps to resolve these issues, either through a political agreement with the Houthis or by escalating confrontation.