Houthis Capture Strategic Port City in Yemen, Threatening Global Trade
The Houthi rebels in Yemen have made significant gains in recent days, capturing key ports and strategic locations along the Red Sea coast. The group has now control of the entire Yemeni coastline along the Red Sea for the first time, posing a threat to global trade and Saudi Arabia's oil exports to Asia.
The Houthis captured the port city of Mokha on Thursday and advanced further south in a lightning offensive that lasted about 18 hours. They took control of Dhubab, the Yemeni government's last port on the Red Sea, and the coastal village of Murad, before crossing by boat to the volcanic island of Perim (Mayyun). The island lies at the narrowest point of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, dividing the channel into two shipping lanes.
The Houthis claim to have driven 'Saudi enemies' out of six districts and captured 11,650 square kilometers. They assure that shipping is 'safe for all companies - except for Saudi ships.' However, analysts warn that even a hint of danger can force shipping companies and insurers to take a detour around the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks to journey times and increasing costs.