Yemeni Houthis complete takeover of Bab el-Mandeb Strait as Saudi forces falter, US holds off air support

Summary

The article reports that Yemen’s Houthi movement allegedly captured Mokha Port, the port of Dhubab, and the island of Perim, giving it control of Yemen’s side of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the entrance to the Red Sea. The advance reportedly followed weeks of fighting with Saudi-backed forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized government. Citing Reuters, Axios, and other sources, the article attributes the offensive to Iranian direction and support, arguing that control of the strait would increase Iran’s leverage over regional shipping and Saudi oil exports. Brent crude reportedly rose to approximately $106 per barrel. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman allegedly requested U.S. airstrikes from President Donald Trump, but the administration reportedly declined direct intervention while continuing intelligence and other non-kinetic support. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper reportedly traveled to Saudi Arabia for emergency coordination meetings, while approximately 200 U.S. personnel were said to be providing support. Iran publicly reaffirmed support for the Houthis while calling for dialogue, and Iranian officials consulted with Saudi and Pakistani counterparts. The article also highlights concerns among Afar communities in Eritrea and nearby areas about maritime security, fishing livelihoods, and humanitarian consequences.