Houthi forces seize Mocha port, threatening Red Sea navigation

Houthi forces in Yemen have seized the strategic port city of Mocha and the Hanish islands in the Red Sea, prompting a military escalation near the Bab al-Mandab Strait. While Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdul-Salam claimed that international navigation remains “safe and regular” and that their military operations are “defensive,” the group has previously claimed responsibility for attacks against Saudi tankers.

International reactions have been critical of the escalation. The United Kingdom condemned the attacks against Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government, warning that the situation threatens regional stability and vital trade routes. Similarly, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed firm condemnation of the Houthi actions, emphasizing the need to preserve maritime security through initiatives like the EU’s Operation Aspides.

The Yemeni government has designated the western coastline a “death zone” and is preparing counteroffensives to reclaim lost territory. This surge in hostilities marks a significant increase in conflict since the 2022 UN-backed truce began to stall.