Speaking in Riyadh, Yemen’s internationally recognised government warns that global inaction has emboldened the Houthis.
According to Yemen’s foreign minister-designate Afrah al-Zouba, the Houthis intend to emulate Iran’s strategy in the Strait of Hormuz by disrupting maritime traffic through the Red Sea’s Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical maritime chokepoint.
“This move would effectively close two major sea routes—the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea—both vital for global commerce,” al-Zouba stated during a press briefing at the Yemeni embassy in Riyadh.
The Houthis, backed by Iran, have gained momentum due to international reluctance to confront their aggressive activities, al-Zouba argued, emphasizing that the group seeks to replicate Iran’s regional influence tactics.
Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which links the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, serves as a crucial thoroughfare for 30% of global container traffic and 12–15% of worldwide trade.
Yemen’s western territory provides strategic control over this vital waterway, giving whoever holds the area significant leverage over global shipping lanes.
Recent data indicates declining Red Sea navigation, with only 11 commodity vessels recorded passing through the strait on a single Sunday.
The remarks by al-Zouba coincide with rising tensions between the Houthis and the Saudi-supported Yemeni government, marking the most severe escalation since the 2022 truce.
In July, the Houthis announced a maritime blockade targeting Red Sea shipping to Saudi Arabia and launched strikes with missiles and drones against the kingdom.
Riyadh has responded with air campaigns directed at Hodeidah, a key Houthi-controlled port city.
The escalation reflects a broader regional instability, with the Houthis asserting military gains and the internationally recognized government preparing for further confrontation.
Al-Zouba noted ongoing exchanges of fire along front lines between Houthi and government forces, though no large-scale offensive has yet been initiated.
Earlier clashes near Hodeidah resulted in the deaths of nearly 20 fighters from both sides.
Since 2014, over 377,000 Yemenis have died due to conflict-related causes, including famine and disease exacerbated by years of war.
The Saudi-led coalition intervened in 2015 to restore the Yemeni government but has since scaled back operations following the 2022 truce.
Current tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE—accused of supporting a southern separatist faction—have further complicated Yemen’s fragile peace.
