Houthi rebels seize control of strategic Yemeni coastline and Perim Island

Between September 10 and 12, 2026, Houthi rebels in Yemen launched an offensive that resulted in the capture of the country's entire Red Sea coastline and several strategic islands, including Perim (Mayyun) and the Hanish archipelago. The rapid 72-hour operation concluded with the withdrawal of government forces from coastal cities such as Mokha and Dhubab, effectively granting the Iran-backed group control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

The development poses a significant threat to global energy security, particularly for Saudi Arabia. With the Strait of Hormuz already closed due to ongoing regional conflict, Riyadh had redirected its oil exports to the Red Sea. The loss of the Bab el-Mandeb corridor, which handles approximately 7% of global oil supplies and 12% of international trade, creates a potential dual-chokepoint crisis for Saudi oil exports and global shipping. While the Houthi leadership has promised to ensure safe passage for non-Saudi vessels, international concerns regarding the stability of the route remain high.

In response to these events, Iranian officials have expressed support for the Houthi advances, while diplomatic efforts continue between Tehran and Riyadh to prevent further escalation. The international community, including Cyprus, has condemned the attacks on infrastructure and civilians, as the US and regional powers monitor the volatile situation to determine next steps in maintaining maritime security.