Saudi Strikes Target Mokha Airport Amid Houthi Island Capture
Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes against the airport in Mokha, Yemen's key port city, after Houthi rebels captured the strategic island of Mayun in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The Houthis have been at war with Yemen's government since 2014 and have recently gained significant territory.
The capture of Mayun, also known as Perim, is a major blow to Saudi Arabia's efforts to maintain control over the region and its oil exports. The island is located just off Yemen's west coast and controls access to one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
Iran has thrown its support behind the Houthis, calling for an end to Saudi Arabia's blockade of Yemen and a return to negotiations between the two sides. This move could give Tehran more leverage in any future negotiations with the US over oil prices.