Iran-backed Houthis sweep toward sudden control over key strait, imperiling global tradeThe Houthi fighters moved closer to gaining a definitive stranglehold over Bab el Mandeb on Thursday after a rapid reignition of their conflict with U.S. ally Saudi Arabia and the internationally-backed Yemeni government. Fighters loyal to the Houthi authorities during a rally in Sanaa on Thursday.Mohammed Huwais / AFP via Getty ImagesSept. 10, 2026, 9:55 AM EDTIran-backed Houthi fighters have staged a sweeping military offensive to close in on one of the world’s most important shipping routes, threatening major consequences for the global economy.Just a moment.We are getting your experience ready.