Houthi Offensive Threatens Global Conflict Amid Escalating Tensions in Middle East

The Houthi rebel group in Yemen has launched a major offensive down the Red Sea coast, seizing key positions and potentially controlling traffic through this vital waterway.

This move could cut off Saudi Arabia's ability to export oil, which was already severely hampered by Iran's attempts to control the Strait of Hormuz on the other side of the country.

The situation is part of a broader Middle East crisis, with tensions escalating between the US and Iran. The conflict has also drawn in other countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and China.

Russia and Iran have deepened their military ties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with Iran supplying Russia with munitions and drones, and Russia reciprocating by sending fighter jets and attack helicopters to Iran.