Sanaa: Houthi rebels supported by Iran have advanced to the strategic island of Perim in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Yemeni government sources informed Reuters, tightening their hold on a crucial global shipping route amid the escalating Middle East conflict.
According to France24.com, the Saudi-backed Yemeni government confirmed its forces' withdrawal from Perim, with the Houthis also taking control of the mainland Red Sea coastal town of Dhubab. The potential control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait by the Houthis could significantly benefit Iran in its ongoing conflict with the US, impacting oil supply routes and potentially increasing global oil prices further.
The conflict began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran six months ago, leading to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a major conduit for global oil and liquefied natural gas trade. Since then, Saudi Arabia has relied on the Red Sea route for its crude exports. Recent escalations between Iran and the US have intensified attacks on Gulf shipping, with US President Donald Trump increasing economic pressure on Tehran.
Iran has confirmed a meeting in Oman with representatives from Iraq and the Gulf Arab states to discuss secure commercial shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, in a speech on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, President Trump labeled Iran as a major sponsor of terror, a claim dismissed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as a diversion from US actions in the conflict.
Satellite imagery confirmed by Reuters showed smoke near Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, leading to a temporary shutdown following attacks. The Saudi energy ministry reported several injuries due to these attacks. Despite a lack of immediate confirmation from Saudi authorities, the International Energy Agency noted a significant decrease in Saudi crude supply, partly attributed to Houthi-linked attacks on ships in the Bab el-Mandeb.
Oil prices, though dipping slightly, were set to end the week above $100 a barrel for the first time since May. The number of vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz decreased significantly, impacting the global shipping volume.
The Houthi military spokesperson assured the safety of maritime navigation for all except Saudi vessels, maintaining a blockade until Saudi aggressions cease. Yemeni government forces are planning a counter-offensive to reclaim areas seized by the Houthis, including the strategic Red Sea islands of Hanish.
Reports suggest that the rapid Houthi advance along Yemen's Red Sea coast came with direct support from Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Iran reportedly urged the Houthis to intensify their attacks on Saudi Arabia, offering increased funding and military support.
Amid these developments, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sought military assistance from President Trump, who, according to sources, declined direct military involvement but offered intelligence support. The ongoing conflict has impacted Trump's approval ratings ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections.