Houthis Reportedly Seize Mocha, Advance Toward Bab al-Mandab

Iran-backed Houthi forces have reportedly captured Yemen’s western Red Sea coastline, the port of Mocha, and several strategic islands, including Perim (Mayyun), Zuqar and the Hanish Islands. The gains give the Houthis control or commanding positions around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a crucial route linking the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Suez Canal, and strengthen their ability to threaten Saudi-linked shipping. The advance is a major setback for Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces, which withdrew from Mocha and are redeploying, and could deepen the regional confrontation involving Iran, particularly after disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz. The fighting has reportedly killed hundreds, displaced tens of thousands and generated reports of looting, while Saudi Arabia has conducted airstrikes and oil prices have risen above $100 a barrel amid concerns over energy supplies and global trade. The Houthis say navigation remains safe for vessels other than Saudi ships, but analysts warn their control of the strait could enable wider attacks or disruption to maritime commerce; Tehran denies directing the offensive.