Houthis seize strategic Red Sea islands as analysts warn of impending oil crunch

The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, captured the islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish, located near the Bab al-Mandab strait, a vital chokepoint for maritime trade. The islands are strategically positioned to control shipping lanes that transport significant volumes of oil. This seizure follows the Houthi capture of the port of Mokha and Perim island, further consolidating their control over the region. The move has triggered warnings from analysts that the global oil supply could face disruptions, with some outlets citing the potential for blockades or attacks on oil tankers. The Guardian and The Irish Times both reported the event, with the latter emphasizing the broader implications for energy markets. No significant divergence in the reporting was noted between the sources. The Houthi group has not issued a formal statement on the strategic significance of the islands, but their actions align with a broader campaign to assert control over key maritime routes in the Red Sea. The international community has expressed concern over the potential for further escalation in the region.