Houthi Rebels Seize Key Island, Escalating Tensions in Iran War

Houthi rebels capture strategic island, raising concerns over shipping routes and global oil prices as Iran war intensifies.

Editorial Desk

September 12, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Frankfurt, Germany — Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have captured a key island and the Red Sea port of Mokha, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran. This development has raised alarms over the security of critical shipping lanes and the potential for further disruption to global oil supplies.

The Houthis seized Mokha on Thursday and captured Mayun, also known as Perim, off Yemen’s coast on Friday, according to two officials. These territorial gains bring their forces closer to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial choke point for international trade. The strait serves as a vital route for Saudi Arabia’s oil exports, especially after the Strait of Hormuz became increasingly dangerous due to Iranian threats.

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Saudi Arabia has shut down a pipeline as a precautionary measure following an attack, though the perpetrators remain unidentified. The Houthi advance has intensified focus on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, despite assurances that non-Saudi-linked vessels are safe. Meanwhile, alternative shipping routes have helped maintain some oil flows, but the situation remains volatile as the conflict continues to evolve.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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