Iran-backed Houthis aim to control Yemen's Red Sea coast and Bab el-Mandeb strait. This strategic waterway connects Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal. Major shipping firms have rerouted vessels, increasing freight costs and journey times. Houthi control could grant Iran leverage in its conflict with the United States. Petroleum volumes transiting Bab el-Mandeb represent about seven percent of global oil output.

Houthi control of a Red Sea port brings Tehran closer to claiming another critical waterway.

Houthi forces are advancing towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, threatening a route carrying 12% of global trade between Yemen, Djibouti and Eritrea

The Houthis in Yemen are making significant strides towards seizing control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Recent clashes between Saudi-backed troops and the Houthis have become…