Houthis Capture Mokha, Escalating Tensions in Yemen

The Houthi movement has taken control of the strategic port city of Mokha, intensifying the ongoing conflict in Yemen and bringing the group closer to the critical Bab al-Mandab strait.

According to military sources, the seizing of Mokha from Saudi-backed pro-government forces marks a significant turn in the conflict. This port city, located on the Red Sea, is about 75 kilometers from the Bab al-Mandab, a vital shipping route that links the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

The recent offensive has reportedly resulted in hundreds of casualties and the displacement of thousands over the past week. As the Houthis continue their attack, they have launched numerous drone and missile strikes on southern Saudi Arabia, injuring 73 civilians and causing significant damage to oil facilities.

Escalation of Attacks

The Houthis have claimed that these retaliatory strikes are in response to a series of Saudi air strikes on their territory, including an attack on a prison in Jawf province that reportedly killed at least 23 civilians. This surge in violence has led to a spike in global oil prices, with oil reaching $100 a barrel for the first time since July.

Impact on Regional Stability

The Saudi-led coalition, which has supported Yemen's government against the Houthis for over a decade, faces increasing challenges as the group escalates its military actions. The conflict has grown more intense since July when a four-year ceasefire began to collapse. The Houthis have implemented a "maritime embargo" against Saudi Arabia and increased their attacks on airports and oil facilities in retaliation for the Saudi blockade of ports and airstrips in their territory.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk