Houthis seize Red Sea's Perim Island, threatening Bab al-Mandab shipping lane

Yemen’s Houthi rebels say they have captured Perim Island in the Bab al-Mandab Strait as part of a broad offensive to drive out Saudi-backed forces. The group, which is backed by Iran, describes the advance as lightning-fast and now claims control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline — a significant expansion of territory achieved over roughly a week of escalated fighting.

The strait is one of the world’s critical maritime chokepoints, funneling traffic between Asia and Europe. The Houthis assert the passage remains open to all shipping except Saudi vessels, but diplomats warn that any interference with this corridor could disrupt a huge share of global trade and put fresh pressure on Saudi oil exports. Because Saudi Arabia is the world’s second-largest oil producer, markets are watching for a potential squeeze on energy supplies and prices.

Washington has responded by offering intelligence and targeting support to Riyadh, but has signaled it is not willing to commit to direct military action for the time being. The situation remains fluid, with the territorial gains and the security of the waterway still contested.