Iran-backed Houthis’ rapid advance threatens a key alternative shipping route to the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions.
Houthis Take Control of Yemen’s Red Sea Coast, Tightening Grip on Bab al-Mandeb
The Houthi rebel group has reportedly taken control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline after making a rapid advance against forces loyal to the internationally recognised Yemeni government. The development could have major consequences for one of the world’s most important maritime routes, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
According to Yemeni government officials, witnesses and regional reports, Houthi fighters captured the remaining coastal towns early Friday. Their forces also moved toward nearby islands in the Bab al-Mandeb, a narrow but strategically important waterway connecting the Gulf of Aden with the Red Sea.
The latest advance further strengthens the Iran-backed group’s position along the maritime corridor. Bab al-Mandeb is a critical route for international shipping, particularly for vessels travelling between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean through the Red Sea and Suez Canal.
The importance of the waterway has increased amid continuing tensions in the region. The route has become an alternative for some shipping activity following disruption around the Strait of Hormuz. Before the conflict between the United States and Iran escalated earlier this year, roughly one-fifth of global energy shipments passed through Hormuz.
Houthi fighters reportedly entered the coastal town of Mocha at dawn on Thursday before moving offshore toward nearby islands. Yemeni government sources later said Houthi forces had reached Dhubab, another coastal town close to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
Government officials also reportedly confirmed that boats carrying Houthi fighters reached Mayyun Island, also known as Perim. The island sits at a strategically important point in the strait and was reportedly left exposed after government forces withdrew.
“The Houthis have completed their takeover of the Bab al-Mandeb area,” one source told the AFP news agency.
The Sanaa-based Yemen Press Agency, citing field sources, also reported that Houthi forces captured the al-Omari military camp, which overlooks the strategic waterway.
Houthi military spokesman Brigadier-General Yahya Saree said in a statement posted on X that the operation had forced Saudi-backed forces out of six districts covering approximately 5,400 square kilometres. He also claimed that seven military brigades had been struck, with hundreds of people killed, captured or wounded.
Those claims could not be independently verified.
The reported takeover marks a significant shift in control along Yemen’s western coastline. Beyond its military importance, the development is likely to raise fresh concerns for commercial shipping, energy markets and regional security.
For ships using the Red Sea route, any increase in fighting or instability around Bab al-Mandeb could create additional risks. The strait is already closely watched because disruptions there can force vessels to take longer and more expensive routes around Africa.
The latest Houthi advance therefore goes beyond Yemen’s internal conflict. It could affect the wider Middle East and global trade, particularly at a time when tensions involving the United States, Iran and regional armed groups are already placing pressure on major shipping corridors.
Houthis reportedly captured Yemen’s remaining Red Sea coastal towns.
The group has strengthened its position around Bab al-Mandeb.
Houthi fighters reportedly reached Mocha and Dhubab.
Mayyun (Perim) Island was also reportedly taken over.
The al-Omari camp overlooking the strait was reportedly captured.
Bab al-Mandeb connects the Gulf of Aden with the Red Sea.
The waterway is vital for international commercial shipping.
Houthi military claims of casualties could not be independently verified.
The advance could increase risks for ships using the Red Sea route.
Longer shipping routes could raise transport and energy costs.