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Huthis Seize Mocha, Move Toward Bab al‑Mandab

Control of Mocha moves rebel forces closer to the Bab al‑Mandab, raising the prospect of wider maritime disruption.

Overview

  • The Huthi militia captured the Red Sea port of Mocha, a development reported Thursday, and moved forces south toward the Bab al‑Mandab shipping chokepoint about 70 kilometres away.
  • Huthi outlets and some media say the group also took nearby islands using rockets and boat landings but Yemeni government sources dispute those island claims.
  • Saudi‑led coalition forces and Huthi fighters have exchanged strikes in recent days with both sides reporting missile, drone and air attacks.
  • The offensive has caused heavy civilian harm with AFP reporting more than 500 dead and the IOM saying nearly 20,000 people have been displaced and driven toward Aden.
  • Yemen’s Presidential Council has appealed for Arab and international help to secure coasts and ports, a move that could widen regional involvement and increase risks to global trade and energy flows.