Yemen’s Houthi movement has reportedly seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha from Saudi-backed government forces, according to military sources.
The reported capture would strengthen the Iran-backed group’s position near the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The strait is a major global shipping route linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. The strait lies about 75km south of Mokha and is one of the world’s key maritime chokepoints.
Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed and thousands displaced since the Houthis launched an offensive in Yemen’s south-western coastal region about a week ago. The reported advance has also coincided with a sharp escalation between the Houthis and neighbouring Saudi Arabia.
On Tuesday, the Houthis launched dozens of drones and missiles towards southern Saudi Arabia, according to Saudi authorities. The attacks reportedly injured 73 civilians and caused fires at several oil facilities. The damage temporarily halted operations at the affected sites.
The Houthis said the attacks were retaliation for Saudi air strikes on north-western Yemen in recent days. Among the reported Saudi strikes was an attack on a prison in Hazm, in Jawf province. Local officials said at least 23 civilians were killed.
Saudi’s Stance
Saudi Arabia has backed Yemen’s internationally recognised government in its long-running conflict with the Houthis. An informal ceasefire that lasted about four years began to unravel in July after the Houthis announced what they called a “maritime embargo” against Saudi Arabia.
The group subsequently launched missile and drone attacks against Saudi airports, oil facilities and tankers in the Red Sea.
The Houthis said their actions were retaliation for a Saudi blockade of ports and airports in areas under their control. They also blamed Saudi Arabia for an air strike on Sanaa airport. The reported capture of Mokha could further complicate efforts to stabilise the region.
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