Yemen’s Houthi rebels seize more key islands in southern Red Sea, tighten grip on shipping routes

On September 10, 2026, Yemen's Houthis captured the Red Sea port city of Mokha from Saudi-backed government forces, marking their largest territorial gain since a 2022 cease-fire. This move strengthens the Houthis' control over one of the region’s critical waterways, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which is crucial for global shipping and trade valued at about $1 trillion annually. The capture of Mokha allows the Houthis to disrupt shipping more effectively, particularly targeting vessels traveling between Saudi Arabia and other regions. This escalation could potentially lead to renewed conflict in Yemen and impact oil prices globally; by September 15, oil prices had reached $108 a barrel for the first time since May. The capture also puts pressure on Egypt due to its potential impact on Suez Canal traffic and revenues. Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the leader of the Houthi group, has transformed his fighters into a formidable force capable of withstanding years of airstrikes by a Saudi-led coalition. With this latest offensive, the Houthis have solidified their position as a significant threat to regional stability and trade routes. The capture of Mokha follows months of increased clashes between the Houthis and government forces, highlighting the fragile state of the 2022 cease-fire. Observers fear that further escalation could restart an all-out civil war in Yemen.