Houthis Seize Strategic Trade Route as Saudi Arabia Faces Energy Crisis Threat
The recent offensive by the Ansarallah (Houthis) has led to significant concerns for Saudi Arabia. On September 15th, they swept the west coast and controlled Bab al Mandeb, a critical chokepoint in international trade. This move also allowed them to threaten Saudi Arabia with ballistic missiles and drones targeting seven cities.
The situation worsened when Iraqi militant groups attacked the East-West Pipeline on September 12th, halting oil supplies of 5 million barrels per day through the Red Sea. As a result, oil prices skyrocketed to $110 per barrel, prompting Riyadh to inform its clients that it may not be able to fulfill future commitments.
The US is also facing challenges in maintaining its influence in the region. Its weakening presence has emboldened Iran and its proxies, including the Houthis. The control of Bab al Mandeb by the Houthis has increased Tehran's leverage over regional geopolitics, despite increased US sanctions on the regime.