Houthi Rebels Seize Key Yemeni Port City of Mocha, Threatening Bab al-Mandab Strait

Yemen's Houthi rebels have seized the strategic port city of Mocha on the Red Sea coast and reportedly reached the island of Perim in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. This advance gives the Iranian-aligned Houthis increased control over one of the world's most vital shipping routes, which is crucial for global commodity vessels and has become an alternative route for Saudi oil shipments. The move is seen as a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict and has contributed to rising oil prices due to concerns over prolonged supply disruptions in the Middle East.