Israel Anticipates International Coalition Against Houthis After Bab al-Mandab Control

Israel estimates that recent Houthi advances in Yemen, including control over the Bab al-Mandab strait, will necessitate the formation of an international coalition to counter them. This assessment stems from Israeli concerns over the implications for global shipping lanes. Currently, Israel prefers to avoid public involvement in the renewed conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, according to Israeli public broadcaster Kan 11. A senior Israeli official stated that an international coalition against the Houthis is inevitable, warning that its absence could lead to chaos in a vital global waterway.

Israel is reportedly engaging in discussions with regional partners, led by the United States, regarding the Red Sea developments. The Bab al-Mandab strait is a critical strategic passage for hundreds of daily vessels traveling between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Israel believes Houthi control could enhance their ability to threaten shipping with relatively simple military means, such as Kornet anti-tank missiles or explosive boats, without needing advanced radar or coastal missile systems.

The report suggests the Houthis have expanded their presence around Bab al-Mandab, allegedly at Iran's behest, exploiting international preoccupation. Their capture of the coastal city of Mokha near the strait is considered a significant recent territorial gain. These developments follow recent Houthi advances against Saudi-backed government forces, securing areas on Yemen's west coast and around the strait.

Simultaneously, the Houthis accused Saudi Arabia of conducting airstrikes, while claiming to have targeted sites within Saudi Arabia, including King Khalid Air Base. Yemeni military sources reported eight government soldiers killed and others injured in Houthi missile attacks. Iran has denied any involvement in the Yemen conflict, stating the Houthis act independently.

The Bab al-Mandab developments are particularly significant for Saudi Arabia, which is increasingly relying on the Red Sea for oil exports, especially with navigation restricted through the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Saudi Arabia suspended operations on its East-West pipeline following a drone attack it attributed to Iraq.