Iran-backed Houthi forces have made new advances in Yemen, increasing concerns about security around the Red Sea and the strategically important Bab al-Mandeb Strait. CNN reports that the group has captured key coastal positions and a strategically located island as fighting with Saudi-backed forces intensifies.
US officials cited by CNN say Washington is providing Saudi Arabia with additional intelligence and targeting support. The Trump administration, however, has indicated that US forces will not take part in offensive strikes against the Houthis, leaving Saudi Arabia and its Yemeni partners to lead the military response.
The renewed fighting follows a period of lower hostilities after a UN-brokered truce in 2022. Saudi-backed Yemeni forces have struggled to halt recent Houthi advances despite years of training and outside support.
The developments carry broader regional consequences. The Bab al-Mandeb is an important route for international shipping, while continued instability in Yemen could place additional pressure on commercial traffic and energy supplies moving through the region.
