Iran’s Houthi allies capture strategic island on vital oil shipping route
Rampant Yemeni rebels take control of island in narrow point of Bab al-Mandab strait, which Saudi is relying on for oil exports
TL;DR
- Houthi forces have captured Perim island in the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical international shipping route.
- This follows the loss of the port city of Mocha to Houthi control.
- Saudi Arabia has conducted air raids on Houthi positions in Mocha.
- The capture of the island strengthens Iran's potential chokehold on global energy shipments.
- The renewed fighting has caused over 46,000 people to flee their homes.
- Concerns exist in western capitals about the potential fall of Aden to Houthi forces.
- A 14-country maritime coalition assembled by Saudi Arabia has reportedly been ineffective so far.
- The Houthi advance is seen as advantageous to Iran in its dealings with other Gulf states and the US.