Houthis Seize Strategic Island, Raising Shipping Fears
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have seized control of the strategic island of Mayun, located at the entrance of the Red Sea. This move comes after they captured a key port city on Thursday, and has raised concerns about further disruptions to international shipping in the region.
According to a senior military official with Yemen's internationally recognized government, the Houthi rebels have now taken control of Mayun island, which is an important alternative route for Saudi oil and other exports. The Strait of Hormuz, located nearby, has seen increased tensions due to Iran's targeting of vessels in recent months.
Saudi Arabia responded with airstrikes against the airport in Mokha, a Houthi-held port city, but there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The Houthi military spokesperson claimed that maritime navigation is safe for all companies except Saudi vessels, which has sparked concerns about the predictability and reliability of the situation.