Houthis Take Full Control of Bab el-Mandeb Strait

The Saudi-backed Yemeni government withdrew its troops from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait last Sunday. The strategic area has now fallen under the total control of the Houthi group. The decision follows six weeks of direct clashes for dominance over the maritime passage.

Yemeni forces retreated to concentrate their defense on the capital, Aden, and neighboring provinces. The Saudi-led coalition states that the move aims to strengthen front lines and contain immediate threats. The Houthi group has also intensified missile and drone attacks against the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a vital chokepoint for global trade. Approximately one trillion dollars in goods pass through the location annually. Saudi Arabia used the route to transport a large portion of its oil exports following tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Beyond the logistical instability, the situation in Yemen presents a severe humanitarian crisis. The city of Taiz is surrounded by the Houthi group, preventing the entry of basic supplies and the exit of civilians. Recent attacks have also struck Saudi Aramco oil facilities in the eastern Saudi province.