Yemen's Houthi Rebels Seize Two More Red Sea Islands

Houthi rebels have taken control of two additional islands in the southern Red Sea, according to Yemeni government and Houthi officials. The insurgents have stationed forces on the Greater Hanish and Lesser Hanish islands, located approximately 160 kilometers north of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. This move follows the Houthis' seizure of the port city of Al Mocha and Perim Island, also known as Mayun, just last week.

The Houthi takeover of these strategic islands in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, a crucial chokepoint for global shipping, raises concerns about potential disruptions to maritime traffic. The group has previously targeted ships in the Red Sea, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The expansion of their control in the Red Sea could further escalate regional tensions and impact international trade routes.