Iran expands influence on Yemen's western coast

Security and media sources report that Iran is expanding its influence along Yemen’s western coast following the Houthi militia's recent takeover of the region. Reports indicate that Iranian experts have conducted field visits to strategic locations, including Bab al-Mandab, Mocha port, and Mocha airport, to coordinate with Houthi missile force engineers.

These activities include the deployment of radar systems in the highlands overlooking the western coast and on Zaqar Island in the Red Sea. Additionally, the coastal strip is reportedly being used as a route for smuggling military equipment from Somalia. Security sources claim that Iranian weapons shipments have recently arrived via the western coast, with unloading operations allegedly overseen by Houthi leader Hassan al-Attas.

Al-Attas is said to manage a smuggling network involving local fishermen to facilitate the transfer of Iranian equipment to Houthi forces. These developments are viewed as efforts to establish a more advanced military presence that could pose new threats to international maritime navigation.