Houthi Rebels Capture Red Sea Islands, Impacting Shipping Routes

Iran-backed Houthi rebels announced on Monday that they have captured Greater and Lesser Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea, which could affect a key global shipping route. This development is part of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has intensified following the US military actions against Iran. The Houthis' control of these islands may hinder maritime traffic and put additional pressure on Saudi Arabia's oil shipments. Saudi-backed Yemeni forces are attempting to reclaim territory near the Bab el-Mandab Strait, an alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed by Iran since US military actions began on February 28. The closure of the Hormuz Strait, a crucial passage for approximately 20% of the world's oil, has contributed to rising global oil prices and an energy crisis. The Houthis have also declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia and recently seized Mayun Island and the port of Mokha, further limiting shipping options. The Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi military targets, claiming significant damage in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes in Yemen. Iran has denied involvement in Yemen's civil war, asserting that the Houthis operate independently. Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when Houthi rebels took control of northern regions, leading to a Saudi-led military intervention in 2015. On Monday, Admiral Brad Cooper of US Central Command was in Jeddah to discuss regional developments with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Reports indicate that President Trump declined a request for direct US military intervention but agreed to provide intelligence support. Iran has accused Saudi Arabia of delaying negotiations regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while Saudi Arabia expresses concerns about the implications of such a deal for Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Currently, Saudi Arabia's secure oil delivery routes to Asian markets are limited to the Suez Canal or around the Cape of Good Hope. China's Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, expressing deep concern over the potential for further escalation.