Context
Yemen’s Houthi rebels reportedly captured Greater Hanish, Lesser Hanish and Perim islands, strengthening their position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The development could increase risks to commercial shipping between Asia and Europe.
Explanation
- The Houthis or Ansar Allah are an Iran-aligned Yemeni armed movement controlling Sana’a and much of north-western Yemen.
- Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea.
- Perim Island lies within this strategic maritime chokepoint.
- The Hanish Islands lie farther north in the southern Red Sea.
- This route links the Indian Ocean with the Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea.
- Island control enables surveillance and possible attacks on merchant vessels, affecting global trade and energy security.
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Houthis Capture Strategic Red Sea Islands