Houthi Rebels Capture Strategic Territory Near Red Sea

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have opened a new front in the Middle East conflict by capturing strategic territory near the Red Sea, escalating their fight against Saudi Arabia and raising concerns for global oil shipments.

The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have tightened their grip on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a waterway that has become increasingly important since the war with Iran began. Disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz led oil shippers to rely more heavily on Bab el-Mandeb as an alternative route.

The capture of this strategic territory is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, and has raised concerns that further disruptions could send oil prices even higher. Oil traded above $100 a barrel this week, and gas prices continued climbing, with Friday's national average reaching $4.29 a gallon.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly spoke with President Donald Trump twice on Thursday, urging him to authorize a U.S. military strike on the Houthis. Trump declined, but the U.S. is continuing to provide intelligence support to Saudi Arabia in the meantime.