Houthi rebels in Yemen seize additional islands in the southern Red Sea, strengthening their control over a key maritime route near Bab el-Mandeb. Multiple outlets report the fighters take over the Greater Hanish and Lesser Hanish islands, located about 160 kilometers north of the strait, after advancing along parts of Yemen’s coastline.
The developments raise risks for global shipping and associated energy flows because Bab el-Mandeb is a critical chokepoint linking Europe and Asia. Outlets describe the moves as part of a broader campaign that consolidates Houthi influence over the Red Sea segment of Yemen’s coast and tightens pressure on transit through the area. Al-Monitor also links the timing to wider regional disruption, mentioning the “Strait of Hormuz” being blockaded earlier, and frames the Houthi advance as likely to further affect international commerce.
While details vary by reporting emphasis—some focus narrowly on the island seizures and their location, others broaden the lens to the wider corridor control and commercial impact—sources broadly agree on the direction of the advance and the strategic importance of the waters involved.
