Yemen's Houthis seize strategic Red Sea port of Mokha

Live updates

1. 3d ago

   Saudi Coalition Targets Houthi Missile Sites Amid Aerial Attacks

   The Saudi-led coalition destroyed Houthi missile storage tunnels and launchers, degrading the rebel group's strike capabilities. This military action follows air defense operations that intercepted three ballistic missiles targeting the Eastern Province and four drones aimed at the southern region. Meanwhile, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh prepares to restore domestic and international flight operations following disruptions caused by previous Houthi missile and drone attacks. Revised terminal arrangements take effect on Sunday, with Terminal 1 serving domestic routes and Terminal 2 handling international flights for Saudi carriers.

   Why it matters

   The recent escalation involves sustained cross-border projectile fire from the Iran-backed Houthi movement into Saudi territory, prompting active air defense engagements by the coalition. These attacks have previously disrupted major aviation hubs like Riyadh, though airport authorities are now moving to normalize schedules. Simultaneously, intense fighting continues around strategic urban centers in Yemen, creating severe humanitarian conditions.

   What is confirmed

   • The Saudi-led coalition destroyed tunnels used to store ballistic missiles and missile launchers to degrade Houthi strike capabilities.
   • King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh is preparing to resume domestic and international flight operations on Sunday following disruptions from Houthi missile and drone attacks.
   • Coalition air defenses intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles launched toward the Eastern Province and four drones aimed at the southern region.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The fight for Yemen's third-largest city, Taiz, is entering a make or break stage.

   What to watch next

   • Implementation of the new Sunday terminal assignments and the actual resumption of flights at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.
   • Further coalition airstrikes or military operations targeting Houthi missile infrastructure in Yemen.
   • Developments in the fighting for Yemen's third-largest city, Taiz.
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. www.ctvnews.ca — Mideast wars: Saudi coalition says Houthi missile sites hit
   2. www.israelnationalnews.com — Riyadh airport to resume flights despite renewed Houthi threats | Israel National News
   3. www.24newshd.tv — Saudi coalition shoots down three Houthi missiles, four drones
   confidence 95%
2. 6d ago

   Houthi Attacks Intensify Across Yemen as Siege Deepens

   Iran-backed Houthi fighters launched a strike on a residential area in Yemen's third-largest city, killing two teenage girls. The attack occurred while the United Nations warned that the city is at grave risk. Meanwhile, the region faces a severe water crisis because a tightening Houthi siege has cut off essential supplies and driven up prices. This blockade threatens the survival of more than 1 million residents, worsening humanitarian conditions as military operations and airstrikes persist across southwestern Yemen.

   Why it matters

   The ongoing military pressure by government forces in Taiz coincides with aggressive Houthi maneuvers across multiple fronts, including recent missile and drone interceptions over Saudi Arabia. The humanitarian toll in Taiz highlights how municipal populations bear the brunt of the protracted conflict. International monitors continue to sound alarms over the severe restrictions on basic resources.

   What is confirmed

   • Iran-backed Houthi rebels struck a residential area in Yemen, killing two teenage girls.
   • Yemen's Taiz faced a deepening water crisis as a Houthi siege cut supplies, drove up prices and threatened more than 1 million residents.

   What to watch next

   • Further United Nations assessments on the humanitarian conditions in Taiz
   • Additional updates regarding government offensives in southwestern Yemen
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. abcnews.com — ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos
   2. www.siasat.com — Yemen’s Taiz faces water crisis as Houthis tighten siege - The Siasat Daily
   3. www.audacy.com — Houthis attack besieged city in Yemen that UN says is at 'grave risk' - Audacy,Radio & Podcasts
   confidence 90%
3. 9d ago

   Houthi Missiles Target Riyadh as Coalition Intercepts Drones

   Saudi forces intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh on Tuesday, as explosions echoed through the capital. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed multiple drones heading toward the kingdom. Coalition spokesman Brig. Gen. Turki Al-Malki confirmed the operations in the Eastern and Madinah regions. Elsewhere, the Yemeni army reported 129 Houthi fighters killed and 176 others wounded during clashes and airstrikes in Taiz as government forces press their offensive in southwestern Yemen.

   Why it matters

   These developments expand the regional conflict beyond Yemen's Red Sea coast, where Houthi rebels previously seized the strategic port of Mokha and the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands. The closure of a major Saudi oil pipeline and recent missile strikes on infrastructure underline the persistent threat to international shipping and energy supplies near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Tehran has also issued threats of retaliation against United States and Israeli attacks while outlining conditions for the Strait of Hormuz.

   What is confirmed

   • Saudi forces intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh on Tuesday.
   • Brig. Gen. Turki Al-Malki confirmed the coalition intercepted and destroyed drones heading toward Saudi Arabia.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Iranian officials raised the possibility of a shift in nuclear policy and threatened retaliation against further US-Israeli attacks.
   • Falling debris from an intercepted drone targeting the Shaybah oil field killed two Energy Ministry workers.
   • The Yemeni army reported 129 Houthis killed and 176 wounded in clashes and airstrikes in Taiz.

   What to watch next

   • Any further missile or drone attacks targeting Riyadh or critical Saudi energy infrastructure
   • Official implementation or rejection of Tehran's conditions regarding the Strait of Hormuz
   • The progression of the Yemeni army offensive against Houthi positions in Taiz
   Sources used for this update (4)

   1. www.iranintl.com — Iran signals possible nuclear policy shift, threatens US retaliation
   2. www.dailysabah.com — Blasts heard in Riyadh despite Saudi interception of Houthi missiles | Daily Sabah
   3. www.arabnews.com — Saudi coalition intercepts 5 drones in Eastern, Madinah regions
   4. www.aa.com.tr — Yemeni army says 129 Houthis killed in clashes, airstrikes in Taiz - Anadolu Ajansı
   confidence 90%
4. 12d ago

   Houthis Expand Arsenal and Territory as Red Sea Tensions Rise

   Yemen's Houthi rebels have seized the strategic Red Sea port of Mokha and the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands, strengthening their hold on regional shipping lanes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The territorial gains follow the collapse of government defensive positions. The port of Mokha suspended operations after sustaining over 25 Houthi missile strikes that caused seven deaths and an estimated $16 million in damage. And Saudi Arabia shut down a major oil pipeline in response to attacks amid the fighting. The Houthis have warned of retaliation if the United States joins Saudi military operations.

   Why it matters

   The territorial captures represent the Houthis' biggest territorial gains in years. These advances support an Iranian strategy to drive up global oil and gas prices to pressure the United States. The group now confronts the Mecca Alliance, marking the first time in years they face a coalition rather than a single adversary.

   What is confirmed

   • Yemen's Houthi rebels seized the strategic Red Sea port of Mokha and the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands.
   • Saudi Arabia shut down a major oil pipeline citing attacks amid fighting in Yemen.
   • Mokha port suspended all commercial and maritime operations after being struck by more than 25 Houthi missiles.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The Houthis are experimenting with Anthropic's Claude AI to build a more sophisticated missile and drone arsenal.

   What to watch next

   • Potential coalition military actions by the Mecca Alliance against Houthi positions.
   • Official responses from the United States regarding Houthi threats of retaliation.
   • Developments concerning global oil and gas price shifts following the pipeline shutdown.
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. spectrumlocalnews.com — Saudi Arabia shuts down major oil pipeline, citing attacks amid fighting in Yemen
   2. www.timesnownews.com — Houthis Claim Fresh Attacks on Riyadh Airport, Saudi Airbase as Tensions Explode
   3. help.naver.com — Futures Flat As Oil Rebounds After Trump's "Energy Ceasefire" Unravels, Memory Stocks Slide | ZeroHedge
   4. agsi.org — The Houthis Confront the Mecca Alliance - AGSI
   5. www.indiatoday.in — How slipper-clad Houthis hit Saudi Arabia with Claude AI and China's missile parts - India Today
   confidence 90%
5. 15d ago

   Iran-Backed Houthis Seize Strategic Yemeni Port of Mokha

   Iran-aligned Houthi rebels seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha on September 10, 2026, following the collapse of government defensive positions along the western coast. The capture occurred after a Houthi counteroffensive backed by missiles and drones caused government troops to withdraw. Consequently, Mokha port suspended all commercial and maritime operations after being struck by more than 25 Houthi missiles, resulting in seven deaths and an estimated $16 million in damage. And Houthi forces captured the strategic islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish, strengthening their grip on regional shipping lanes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

   Why it matters

   The fall of Mokha follows a sudden collapse of internationally recognized government forces that had previously launched a major offensive along Yemen's Red Sea coast. This escalation compounds broader regional instability, including tit-for-tat strikes between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia that threaten vital petroleum infrastructure and global shipping routes. The fighting near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait adds a dangerous new dimension to the wider conflict, increasing pressures on regional economies.

   What is confirmed

   • Iran-aligned Houthi rebels seized control of Yemen's port city of Mokha on September 10, 2026.
   • Government forces suffered a major collapse along the western coast front on September 9, 2026.
   • Houthi rebels captured the strategic islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish.
   • Mokha port suspended all commercial and maritime operations after being battered by more than 25 Houthi missiles, killing seven people and causing an estimated $16 million in damage.

   Still unconfirmed

   • President Donald Trump said he expected the Iran war to end after the U.S. midterm elections.

   What to watch next

   • Re-opening or prolonged closure of Mokha port operations
   • Further Houthi movements around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait
   • Additional retaliatory strikes between Saudi forces and the Houthi movement
   Sources used for this update (14)

   1. spectrumlocalnews.com — Saudi oil pipeline hit in strikes will be mostly out of service for several weeks for repair
   2. cde.news — Houthis advance along Yemeni coast, threaten Saudi oil ...
   3. www.nbcnews.com — NBC News - Breaking Headlines and Video Reports on World, U.S....
   4. www.bbc.com — BBC Home - Breaking News, World News, US News, Sports, Business...
   5. fightbacknews.org — Revolution in Yemen comes to a head in Red Sea offensive
   6. www.alestiklal.net — Houthis Advance Along Yemen’s Western Coast: Betrayal or a ...
   7. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Deadly attacks on Saudi Arabia risk wider war that draws in US
   8. www.middleeasteye.net — Who are Yemen's Houthis and what do they want? | Middle East Eye
   9. www.nbcnews.com — Another Hormuz? What to know about the Houthi threat to the Red Sea
   10. www.arabnews.com — Arab News | Djibouti faces ‘perfect storm’ as Yemenis flee ...
   11. www.mirror.co.uk — Prince Harry and Meghan 'excited' ahead of first 'royal-style' engagement since UK return - The Mirror
   12. www.wionews.com — Yemen's Mokha Port suspends operations after 25+ Houthi ...
   confidence 95%
6. 20d ago

   Yemeni Forces Counterattack Houthis Along Red Sea Coast

   Forces of Yemen's internationally recognized government have launched a major offensive against Iran-backed Houthi rebels along the Red Sea coast, backed by a massive air campaign from a Saudi-led coalition. Yemeni troops recaptured the strategic port city of Mokha and advanced to Dhubab Airport, signaling a retreat by Houthi fighters from key areas around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Concurrently, the conflict has expanded as Houthi attacks target Saudi infrastructure, including a strike on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport that killed three nationals and injured several others.

   Why it matters

   The escalation follows Houthi advances that included seizing Mokha and pushing toward Taiz, prompting the current military mobilization by the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. The fighting threatens vital shipping lanes and energy transport in the Red Sea. Oil markets remain on edge with Brent trading around $100 a barrel amid fears of regional supply disruptions.

   What is confirmed

   • Forces of Yemen's internationally recognized government began a major offensive against Iran-backed Houthi rebels on the country's Red Sea coast.
   • Yemeni forces recaptured the strategic port city of Mokha and advanced to Dhubab Airport.
   • Saudi-led coalition fighter jets are bombing Houthi rebels, with the coalition stating 100 fighter jets participated.
   • Three nationals were killed in Houthi missile attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The Yemeni army states that 1,747 Houthis were neutralized in over 1,100 military operations.

   What to watch next

   • Further ground advances by Yemeni government forces along the Tihamah coast
   • Additional Houthi missile or drone attacks targeting Saudi infrastructure
   • Potential impact on oil supply and Brent crude pricing amid Middle East escalation
   Sources used for this update (11)

   1. www.yahoo.com — A Saudi-led coalition says its fighter jets are bombing Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels
   2. tribune.com.pk — Yemeni army says 1,747 Houthis ‘neutralized’ in over 1,100 military operations - The Express Tribune
   3. gulfnews.com — Yemeni govt forces reach Dhubab Airport, near Houthi-occupied Mocha Red Sea port - Gulf News
   4. www.cnbc.com — Iran war: Yemen forces reclaim Red Sea port city of Mokha from Houthis
   5. www.koreatimes.co.kr — Saudi-backed Yemeni forces expel Houthi rebels from several areas around key strait, officials say
   6. www.wol.com — Yemen forces reclaim Red Sea port city of Mokha from Houthis
   7. www.news4jax.com — Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis claim new attacks on Saudi Arabia as it's pulled deeper into conflict - News4....
   8. www.aol.com — Iran-backed Houthis seize another town in Yemen as they advance toward key city of Taiz - AOL
   9. www.al-monitor.com — Yemen military announces retaking of Mokha from Houthis amid Red Sea offensive - AL-MONITOR: The Middle E....
   10. www.bbc.com — Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport attacked, injuring several, reports say
   11. www.bbc.com — Saudi Arabia says three nationals killed in Houthi attacks on Riyadh airport.
   confidence 95%
7. 26d ago

   Houthis capture Mokha port as Saudi-backed forces launch counter-offensive

   Iran-backed Houthi forces have seized the Red Sea port city of Mokha and advanced across much of the southern Tihamah coast. In response, Saudi-backed Yemeni troops launched a major operation to reclaim the lost territory. This escalation follows Houthi efforts to take the city of Taiz and prompts a massive military mobilization. Saudi Arabia is reportedly planning a large-scale offensive to reverse Houthi gains in the region.

   Why it matters

   Control of the Tihamah coast and Red Sea ports allows the Houthis to disrupt maritime trade and secure strategic supply lines. The conflict involves a proxy struggle between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Previous clashes included drone and missile strikes against Sanaa.

   What is confirmed

   • Iran-backed Houthi forces seized the Red Sea port city of Mokha.
   • Saudi-backed Yemeni forces launched an operation to retake territory seized by the Houthis.

   Still unconfirmed

   • More than 100,000 Yemeni government troops could be mobilized for the Saudi-backed operation.

   What to watch next

   • Outcome of the Saudi-backed offensive to retake the Tihamah coast
   • Whether Houthi forces successfully seize the city of Taiz
   • UN response to the ongoing military offensive
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. www.rt.com — Saudi Arabia preparing massive Yemen offensive – Reuters — RT World News
   2. www.rt.com — Houthis claim new gains as Yemeni troops launch major offensive (VIDEOS) — RT World News
   3. tasisdaily.com — Houthis Seize Red Sea Port of Mokha, Widen Yemen Advanc ...
   confidence 90%
8. 28d ago

   Houthis Advance on Taiz as Regional Conflicts Converge

   Houthi forces are pushing to seize the strategic Yemeni city of Taiz following their capture of the port of Mokha, prompting a UN appeal to halt the military offensive. Explosions shook the Houthi-controlled capital of Sanaa after Saudi Arabia intercepted four drones and two ballistic missiles. Meanwhile, general mobilizations have been ordered across Yemen to reinforce frontlines. Experts warn that the escalating violence could intersect with a worsening conflict in the Horn of Africa, where Tigrayan forces recently launched a major offensive by seizing airports.

   Why it matters

   The ongoing Houthi advances threaten vital shipping lanes and energy infrastructure around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, drawing increased military deployments from foreign partners like France to protect Saudi oil hubs. This localized escalation in Yemen risks merging with broader regional instability, as conflicts in Ethiopia and Eritrea strain security across neighboring maritime corridors. Intelligence analysts warn that foreign competition for access to African ports is accelerating violence throughout the Horn of Africa.

   What is confirmed

   • UN Special Envoy urged the Iran-backed rebels to halt their military offensive as fighting intensified around Taiz.
   • Explosions rocked Houthi-controlled Sanaa after Saudi Arabia intercepted four drones and two ballistic missiles launched by the group.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict could intersect with increased Houthi escalation in Yemen as Tigrayan forces seize airports and advance into neighboring areas.

   What to watch next

   • Whether Houthi forces capture Taiz amid the intensified fighting
   • Further military responses from Saudi Arabia following the intercepted drone and missile attacks
   • Potential spillover effects between the Horn of Africa conflict and the Red Sea crisis
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. www.jpost.com — Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict could intersect with increased Houthi escalation in Yemen, experts fear
   2. understandingwar.org — Iran Update, September 29, 2026 | ISW
   3. www.thenationalnews.com — Houthis push for Taiz as fighting intensifies around strategic Yemeni city | The National
   4. www.ynetnews.com — Beyond the Red Sea: Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict risks converging with Yemen crisis
   5. www.israelnationalnews.com — Houthis accuse Saudi Arabia of strikes on Sanaa after drone and missile attacks | Israel National News
   6. www.rollingstone.com — Songs of the Summer: 2010s includes 'Fancy,' 'Blurred Lines',...
   7. www.rollingstone.com — How 10 Major Songwriters Make Big Money - Rolling Stone
   8. au.rollingstone.com — Rihanna feat. Jay-Z, 'Umbrella' - Rolling Stone Australia
   confidence 90%
9. 30d ago

   France Deploys Forces to Saudi Arabia as Houthi Seizure of Mokha Expands

   France will deploy troops, radar, and air-defense systems to Saudi Arabia to protect a key Red Sea oil hub following escalating Houthi attacks. President Emmanuel Macron announced the military deployment as Houthi rebels consolidated control over the strategic port city of Mokha after nine days of fighting. The advance tightens insurgent control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, threatening global energy security through the use of Iranian missile and drone technology combined with Chinese dual-use parts.

   Why it matters

   Years of punitive air campaigns by multiple nations have failed to halt the Houthi movement, which has expanded its regional influence by exploiting local political fragmentation and advancing domestic weaponry. Meanwhile, the broader conflict risks converging with a deteriorating security situation in the Horn of Africa, where external powers vie for port access. In response to the growing threat, Saudi Grand Mufti urged troops to sacrifice their lives to defend the nation.

   What is confirmed

   • France will deploy troops, radar and air-defense systems to Saudi Arabia to protect a key Red Sea oil hub, President Emmanuel Macron announced.
   • The Houthis captured Yemen's al Mokha port city after nine days of fighting.
   • Yemen's Houthis have widened control near the Bab el-Mandeb strait using Iranian missile and drone technology and Chinese dual-use parts.
   • Yemeni forces seized new mountain positions in Lahj as the Houthi advance stalled.
   • Intelligence analyst Mowlid Ali stated that the Horn of Africa is deteriorating because of the dominance of powers trying to come to Africa and occupy ports.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Violence in the Horn of Africa is going to get worse as the conflict risks converging with the Yemen crisis.

   What to watch next

   • Deployment of French troops, radar, and air-defense systems to Saudi Arabia
   • Further ground clashes between Yemeni forces and Houthi fighters near Lahj and the Bab el-Mandeb strait
   • Potential convergence of the Yemen crisis with conflicts in the Horn of Africa
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. sentinelcolorado.com — Why Yemen's Houthis have only grown stronger through years of war - Sentinel Colorado
   2. time.com — How the War is Changing the Geography of Iran’s Influence
   3. en.sedaily.com — Houthis Grow Into Sea Threat With Iranian Arms, Chinese Parts - Seoul Economic Daily
   4. www.arabnews.com — Be ready to sacrifice lives to defend nation from Houthis ...
   5. srnnews.com — The Media Line: Beyond the Red Sea: Ethiopian-Eritrean Conflict Risks Converging With Yemen Crisis - SRN ....
   6. www.rt.com — Macron to send French troops to Saudi Arabia — RT World News
   7. www.arabnews.com — Arab News | Yemeni forces seize new mountain positions in Lahj as Houthi advance stalls
   8. www.wionews.com — Houthis capture Yemen's al Mokha port city, advance towards ...
   9. www.youtube.com — HUGE: Houthis Capture Mokha Port | Threat to Saudi Arabia ...
   confidence 95%
10. 32d ago

    Houthis Battle for Control of Yemen Front Line

    Iran-backed Houthi rebels have captured the strategic port city of Mokha on Yemen's Red Sea coast during a 48-hour offensive supported by Iranian advisers, tightening their grip on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait shipping route and raising international concerns over global oil supplies. The offensive escalates the broader conflict in Yemen, with the Houthis issuing warnings of continued strikes directed at Saudi Arabia while sparing US vessels in the Red Sea. Journalists from the BBC have gained rare access to the active conflict zone, traveling directly to the front line alongside pro-government soldiers.

    Why it matters

    Yemen occupies a vital geopolitical position on the southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, sharing borders with Saudi Arabia and Oman while maintaining a major coastline along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The country controls the Bab el-Mandeb maritime chokepoint leading toward the Suez Canal, making its coastal territories strategically critical for international shipping and petroleum transit. Historically known in antiquity as Happy Arabia due to its fertile terrain and dominance over lucrative spice trade routes, the region now faces severe destabilization.

    What is confirmed

    • Yemen is located in southern Arabia and borders Saudi Arabia to the north.
    • Yemen shares maritime borders with Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia across the Horn of Africa.
    • Sanaa is the constitutional capital and largest city of Yemen.
    • The population of Yemen is estimated at 34.7 million people.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Iran-backed Houthi rebels captured the strategic port city of Mokha on Yemen's Red Sea coast in a 48-hour offensive aided by Iranian advisers.

    What to watch next

    • Further reporting from front-line access points in Yemen
    • Developments regarding Houthi control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait shipping route
    • Potential international responses to threats against Saudi Arabia
    Sources used for this update (7)

    1. www.bbc.com — Inside Yemen's front-line city as Houthis battle for control
    2. en.wikipedia.org — Yemen - Wikipedia
    3. www.worldatlas.com — Yemen Maps & Facts - World Atlas
    4. en.wikipedia.org — History of Yemen - Wikipedia
    5. fr.wikipedia.org — Yémen — Wikipédia
    6. www.aljazeera.com — Yemen | Yemen | Today's latest from Al Jazeera
    7. simple.wikipedia.org — Yemen - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
    confidence 90%
11. 34d ago

    Houthis seize strategic Red Sea port of Mokha, escalate Yemen conflict

    The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have captured the strategic port city of Mokha on Yemen's Red Sea coast in a 48-hour offensive aided by Iranian advisers. This development tightens the Houthis' grip on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait shipping route, raising concerns about global oil supplies and the Yemen conflict's escalation. The Houthis have also warned Saudi Arabia of continued strikes, while sparing US ships in the Red Sea.

    Why it matters

    The Yemen conflict has been ongoing since 2015, with the Houthis, backed by Iran, fighting against the government and Saudi-led coalition. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical waterway for international oil shipments, and the Houthis' control of Mokha and the surrounding area has significant implications for global energy markets. The conflict has caused widespread displacement and humanitarian crises in Yemen.

    What is confirmed

    • Iranian advisers helped the Houthis seize Yemen's Red Sea coast in less than 48 hours.
    • The Houthis have captured the strategic port city of Mokha on Yemen's Red Sea coast.
    • The Houthis will not attack US ships in the Red Sea but will continue strikes on Saudi Arabia.
    • Houthi advances and attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure are adding to oil market supply threats.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Iran's IRGC are on the ground helping Houthis

    What to watch next

    • Further Houthi advances along Yemen's Red Sea coast
    • Saudi Arabia's response to Houthi warnings of continued strikes
    • Impact on global oil markets and shipping routes
    Sources used for this update (10)

    1. news24online.com — Iran-backed Houthis spare US ships in Red Sea, say 'won't attack them'; warn Saudi allies as Yemen war escalates
    2. oilprice.com — Yemen Escalation Raises New Risks for Global Oil Markets
    3. www.bostonherald.com — Iranian advisers helped Houthis seize Yemen’s Red Sea coast in less than 48 hours, sources tell AP
    4. www.militarynews.com — Iranian advisers helped Houthis seize Yemen’s Red Sea coast in less than 48 hours, sources tell AP | Na....
    5. www.thenationalnews.com — Houthis seek to control strategic Kahboub mountain range near Yemen's Taiz | The National
    6. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — ‘IRGC ON THE GROUND!’: How Iran Helped Houthis KILL Saudi-Backed Forces, Seize Red Sea Coast - Times ....
    7. www.the-star.co.ke — Iran offers US deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz in seven days - The Star
    8. www.foreignpolicyjournal.com — Houthi Territorial Gains Along Yemen’s Red Sea Coast Spark Mass Displacement And Deepening Humanitarian....
    9. www.indiatoday.in — Houthi rebels seize Yemen Red Sea coast with Iranian advisers, Mokha falls in 48 hours - India Today
    10. www.bbc.com — Who are the Houthis in Yemen and what do they want?
    confidence 85%
12. 46d ago

    Houthis seize Hanish islands as Saudi oil pipeline sustains drone damage

    Iran-backed Houthi rebels have captured the strategic islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish in the southern Red Sea after government-allied forces withdrew. This expansion of territorial control tightens the group's grip on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait shipping route. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia halted traffic on a major oil pipeline following a drone attack. The pipeline will remain mostly out of service for weeks during repairs, restricting oil flow and prompting warnings of a potential oil crunch. Human Rights Watch alleges three recent Houthi attacks on commercial vessels likely constitute war crimes.

    Why it matters

    The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical global maritime chokepoint for oil and commercial trade. By controlling the Hanish islands and the port of Mokha, the Houthis increase their ability to disrupt international shipping. Saudi Arabia relies on these lanes for oil exports.

    What is confirmed

    • Houthi rebels seized the strategic islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish in the southern Red Sea.
    • Government and Houthi officials confirmed the capture of more strategic islands on Monday.
    • Saudi Arabia shut down a major oil pipeline as a precaution after it came under attack.
    • The damaged Saudi oil pipeline will be mostly out of service for weeks.
    • The Houthi group is backed by Iran.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Latest Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden likely amount to war crimes in at least three cases.

    What to watch next

    • Timeline for the full restoration of the Saudi oil pipeline
    • International response to the seizure of the Hanish islands
    • Evidence of further Houthi advances toward other maritime chokepoints
    Sources used for this update (8)

    1. www.wishtv.com — Houthi rebels seize strategic island as Saudi Arabia shuts pipeline
    2. www.klcc.org — Yemen's Houthis capture a Red Sea island in threat to shipping
    3. www.nationalheraldindia.com — Yemen: Houthis seize more Red Sea islands, tighten grip on key shipping route
    4. www.pbs.org — Houthis seize 2 strategic Red Sea islands, and other Mideast developments
    5. www.aol.com — Saudi pipeline hit by drones will be out of service for weeks, further restricting oil flow
    6. www.theguardian.com — Houthis seize strategic Red Sea islands as analysts warn of impending oil crunch
    7. www.hrw.org — Yemen: New Attacks by Houthi Include Likely War Crimes
    8. risingnepaldaily.com — Yemen's Houthi rebels seize more key islands in Red Sea
    confidence 90%
13. 49d ago

    Houthis seize strategic Red Sea port of Mokha

    Iran-backed Houthi rebels have seized the strategic port city of Mokha in Yemen. Houthi and Yemeni officials confirmed the takeover of the port, which sits approximately 50 miles from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The group has also reached Perim island, increasing their leverage over a critical global shipping artery. These military gains may lead to higher global gas prices as the group advances toward another vital oil choke point.

    Why it matters

    The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a major global trade route and oil choke point. Control of the coastline allows the Houthis to disrupt shipping traffic entering and exiting the Red Sea.

    What is confirmed

    • Houthi and Yemeni officials confirmed the seizure of the port of Mokha.
    • Mokha is located about 50 miles from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
    • The Houthis are backed by Iran.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Houthis have taken control of Yemen's entire Red Sea coastline.
    • Houthi military gains may further increase gas prices.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of full control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait
    • Movement of Houthi forces toward other oil choke points
    Sources used for this update (9)

    1. The New York Times — Yemen’s Houthis Seize Strategic Red Sea Port, Officials Say
    2. BBC — Yemen's Houthis reportedly seize strategic Red Sea port of Mokha
    3. NPR — Why Houthi military gains in Yemen may further increase gas prices
    4. CNBC — Iran-backed Houthis seize key port in Yemen, advance on another vital oil choke point
    5. aljazeera.com — Iran war live: Houthis take control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline
    6. www.boisestatepublicradio.org — Iran-backed Houthi rebels seize a strategic port and island, opening a new battlefront
    7. www.timesfreepress.com — Houthis seize strategic Red Sea port in Yemen, and other Mideast developments
    8. www.chinadaily.com.cn — Houthis seize strategic port in Red Sea
    9. www.arise.tv — Houthis Reportedly Seize Yemen’s Strategic Red Sea Port Of Mokha
    confidence 90%