Yemen's Houthis Reportedly Plant Naval Mines in Bab al-Mandab Strait

The Houthi group has reportedly planted naval mines in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a crucial maritime chokepoint, according to a Yemeni military source speaking to German media. The source claims the Houthis used trenches dug into the mountains overlooking the strait to deploy the mines, a tactic described as similar to Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. This move is seen as an attempt by the Houthis to prevent or delay Yemeni government forces from retaking recently captured areas.

The report follows news from Reuters about direct talks between the U.S. and the Houthis in Oman. During these discussions, the Iran-aligned group reportedly assured American officials that they would not target U.S. or Israeli ships, provided these vessels have no connection to Saudi Arabia.

Last week, the Houthis secured a significant strategic advantage by taking control of a central area of the Bab al-Mandab Strait. This territorial gain on the Yemeni Red Sea coast enhances their ability to disrupt shipping traffic in one of the world's most vital waterways. The group's control has raised concerns about potential threats to international shipping and disruptions to global trade and energy supplies, especially given their arsenal of ballistic missiles, drones, and naval capabilities.