Houthis Tighten Grip on Yemen's Red Sea Shipping Route
On Friday Houthi forces took control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline. The Iran-backed group is tightening its grip on a major shipping route.
Houthi fighters took over the towns of Mokha and Dhubab. They also captured Perim island in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Perim is also called Mayun. Yemeni government officials and Houthi officials confirmed the island's capture.
The advances came alongside Houthi gains against Yemen's government. Houthi forces also gained ground against Saudi Arabia.
Saudi-backed forces retreated as Houthi forces advanced. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman asked President Trump to consider strikes.
The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a vital shipping route. About 12% of global goods normally pass through the strait. The strait is also important for Saudi oil exports.
Key Terms 4
- Houthi An armed group in Yemen backed by Iran.
- Bab al-Mandab Strait A narrow sea passage used for global shipping.
- Perim A small volcanic island in the strait, also called Mayun.
- Mohammed bin Salman The Crown Prince and de facto leader of Saudi Arabia.