Houthis Claim Control of Yemen’s Entire Red Sea Coast
Yemen’s Houthi forces have claimed a major strategic victory after taking control of the remaining government-held areas along the country’s Red Sea coastline.
The rapid advance has reportedly given the Houthis control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coast, including key islands near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints. The group had already captured the strategic port city of Mokha before advancing further along the coast.
The development significantly strengthens the Houthis’ ability to influence shipping through the Red Sea and gives them a stronger strategic position amid the wider regional conflict. Control of the Bab al-Mandeb could have major consequences for global trade and energy supplies.
The advance is also a major setback for Yemen’s internationally recognised government and raises fears that the country’s fragile ceasefire could collapse into renewed large-scale fighting.
