Houthis Strengthen Position Near Bab el-Mandeb Strait

The Houthis have strengthened their positions near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which heightens the risks to global trade

Forces of Yemen’s internationally recognised government, backed by Saudi Arabia, have announced the withdrawal of units from the area near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This move gives the Houthis greater scope to influence one of the world’s most vital maritime trade routes, linking Asia with Europe via the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

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According to Reuters, South Yemeni forces have announced the redeployment of units from the area around Dhuhab Airport and the territory near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, west of Taiz province. The military stated that it is directing forces towards Aden, where the government is based, to strengthen the defences of the capital and neighbouring provinces.

The military’s statement said the decision had been taken to ensure Aden’s security, strengthen the front line and counter existing threats.

Meanwhile, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. A significant proportion of maritime freight traffic between Asia and Europe passes through it, including on the route via the Suez Canal. Therefore, the Houthis’ increased control over the coastline could heighten risks to shipping and put further pressure on international supply chains, the publication notes.

Military escalation heightens risks for transport and the energy sector

According to Reuters, in October government forces launched an operation to recapture strategic coastal areas after the Houthis advanced southwards. The withdrawal of troops from the strait is taking place against a backdrop of intensifying fighting in western Yemen.

The situation is complicated by the fact that shipping in the region is already under pressure due to the conflict surrounding Iran and disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The simultaneous deterioration of conditions on two key routes could hamper energy exports from the Gulf states and increase uncertainty for shippers.

Reuters also reports on Houthi attacks on Saudi ports, airports and facilities belonging to the state-owned oil company Saudi Aramco, including the Yanbu export terminal on the Red Sea. Saudi Arabia, for its part, has carried out strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen.

This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.

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