Iran-backed Houthis advance on key maritime chokepoint and strike Saudi oil facilities

The Houthis, supported by Iran, have launched attacks on critical maritime routes, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital passage for global trade. These strikes have disrupted oil shipments, sending shockwaves through global energy markets. In addition, the Houthis have targeted Saudi oil infrastructure, including refineries and pipelines, further destabilizing the region. The attacks mark a significant escalation in the conflict, which has seen the Houthis gain territorial control and military capabilities over time. Despite international sanctions and military interventions, the group has continued to grow stronger. The Saudi-led coalition, which has been fighting the Houthis since 2015, has struggled to contain the group's advances. The conflict has drawn in multiple actors, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and global powers like the United States and Russia. The situation remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight.