Houthi Gains at Bab al-Mandab Strain Global Oil Markets

The Houthi movement in Yemen has made significant gains around the strategic Bab al-Mandab strait, increasing risks to Red Sea shipping and global oil markets. The Houthis' recent offensive has resulted in territorial advances along the Red Sea coast, with forces reaching as far as Bab al-Mandab.

The Houthi's strengthened position allows for greater surveillance, operation, and logistics around the strait, while reducing interference from local adversaries. This development comes as Saudi energy infrastructure and export routes are already under pressure from the wider regional conflict.

While the Houthis have used calibrated coercion rather than maximum disruption, their intensified attacks on Saudi Arabia have expanded geographically, targeting energy infrastructure, airports, and military facilities.