Houthis Threaten Saudi Oil Exports Through Strategic Red Sea Shipping Route

The Iran-aligned Houthis have advanced down the Red Sea coast of Yemen, threatening Saudi oil exports through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The group has seized control of Mocha and reached the strategic islands of Hanish, gaining leverage over one of the world's most important shipping routes.

Yemeni Government military sources said the Houthis have also gained a direct presence on the approaches to the strait, raising serious concerns about freedom of navigation. The group's advance has led to a jump in oil prices, with Brent crude increasing by up to four percent above $US105 a barrel.

The fighting comes as US President Donald Trump predicted an end to the war after the US midterm elections, saying Iran is trying to influence the outcome. However, Yemen's Houthi-run humanitarian operations coordination centre has stated that Red Sea navigation is safe for all shipping companies except for Saudi vessels.