Houthis Seize Vital Red Sea Shipping Corridor in Yemen

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have taken control of the Red Sea coast in Yemen after capturing three strategic islands, including the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital shipping corridor linking Europe and Asia.

The capture, which follows a week-long offensive that has killed hundreds, cemented the Houthis' hold on a crucial route for international commerce. The development is likely to deepen the Middle East war's impact on global trade.

Saudi Arabia shut down an oil pipeline following attacks, and after months of Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices have soared past $100 a barrel this week. The capture also heightens the Houthis' ability to attack Saudi tankers, which they have been targeting since July.

Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Iranian supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, congratulated the Houthis on their 'resounding victory'. Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesman, said navigation through the Bab al-Mandab Strait was 'safe' for all but Saudi Arabia.