Houthis Seize Strategic Island at Red Sea Entrance
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have seized a key island at the entrance of the Red Sea, potentially disrupting international shipping. The island of Mayun was captured after the Houthis took control of the Red Sea port of Mokha on Thursday.
Saudi Arabia responded to the capture with airstrikes against the airport in Mokha, but there are no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The seizure of the island is a strategic move for the Houthis, as it provides an alternative route for shipping Saudi oil and other exports.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea handles about 12% of global trade, making this region crucial for international commerce. Iran has called on Saudi Arabia to lift its blockade on Yemen and resume talks with the Houthis.