Houthis Seize Mocha as Conflict Escalates in Yemen
The conflict in Yemen has escalated as Iran-aligned Houthi forces seized the port city of Mocha, pushing towards the Hanish islands near the Bab El Mandeb Strait. The Red Sea route is a crucial trade artery for Saudi Arabia, which has relied on it since the Hormuz corridor was effectively closed to a fifth of global oil flows.
The advance came after the Houthis continued their attacks on southern Saudi cities, hitting Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Jazan. The Kingdom lifted alerts in Khamis Mushait and Abha, with the Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Turki Al Malki stating that they would respond 'responsibly.'
The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with 73 people injured in Tuesday's attacks on energy facilities and civilian locations across Abha, Najran, Jazan, and Khamis Mushait. The Houthis claimed their missiles hit Aramco facilities, causing fires and forcing a 'temporary halt' in operations.
Saudi Arabia has retaliated with airstrikes across Yemen, including the Al Jawf region where at least 32 casualties were reported. Meanwhile, Iran continues to pressure the Hormuz Strait, claiming it captured a US submarine drone and hitting several merchant vessels with disabling fire in the Gulf of Oman.