Saudi Arabia facing 'biggest threat' ever to oil production as Iran-proxy Houthis launch attacks, expert says

Saudi Arabia is facing an unprecedented threat to its oil production due to escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, who are seizing territory near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. An expert suggests Iran likely instigated these actions to disrupt Saudi oil exports, viewing it as an existential threat to the kingdom. Recent provocations include drone attacks near Mecca and a temporary closure of Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline. The Houthis have stated they are targeting only Saudi shipping, not international vessels, complicating potential U.S. involvement. Saudi Arabia has reportedly sought military action from the U.S., but Washington appears hesitant to directly engage, instead focusing on empowering allies to manage regional security challenges.

At least five people, including three children, have been killed in escalating attacks between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthis. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting a Houthi drone over Taif, resulting in one Yemeni resident's death and two injuries. The Houthis claimed Saudi airstrikes in Taiz province killed one civilian and injured another, and later reported three children died in strikes by Saudi-backed forces. Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi vehemently denied Saudi claims that the group targeted Mecca, calling it a "heinous lie" and propaganda. Iran's foreign ministry condemned any aggression against holy sites but cautioned against accusations based on mere claims, while China has reportedly urged Iran to rein in the Houthis.

Yemeni government forces and the Saudi-led coalition have intensified fighting against Houthi forces, with strikes reported around Mocha and drone attacks in Marib. The Houthis claimed to have shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet. Saudi Arabia has requested missile defense support from allies including France, Pakistan, Egypt, and the United Kingdom due to dwindling interceptor stocks, a situation exacerbated by the US also seeing its own interceptor supply decrease. The US reiterated its support for Yemen's internationally recognized government and confirmed its military relationship with Saudi partners. Notably, US officials also held direct talks with Houthi representatives in Oman last weekend.

China is facing an oil supply challenge due to escalating prices and disruptions to key shipping routes from the Middle East. Attacks on a pipeline to the Red Sea and ongoing issues in the Strait of Hormuz, exacerbated by regional conflicts and US sanctions on Iran, have complicated access to Middle Eastern, Russian, and Iranian crude. Consequently, Chinese refiners are increasingly seeking alternative supplies globally, which is contributing to price hikes both domestically and internationally. While China previously used its vast reserves to absorb initial supply shocks, these buffers are diminishing as refiners increase processing and aim to rebuild inventories. Russia remains China's largest supplier, with overland and Pacific coast routes offering less disrupted access.

Houthi militants have advanced along Yemen's Red Sea coast, capturing strategic islands in the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical global trade route. This escalation of the ongoing civil war, which began in 2014, has displaced at least 100,000 Yemenis, exacerbating a decade-long humanitarian crisis. The fighting between Iran-aligned Houthis and Saudi-backed government forces raises fears of a new oil supply crisis, with crude oil prices already spiking. Experts highlight that global attention is diverted from the severe plight of Yemeni civilians, with over 18.2 million people in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The conflict has also significantly impacted the country's honey trade and farmers.

President Donald Trump claims the US is "toward the end" of its war with Iran and that he has spoken directly with Iranian officials, suggesting renewed diplomacy. However, Tehran has not confirmed direct negotiations and previously rejected talks unless its conditions are met, including the US honoring a prior deal. This comes as global energy prices rise due to fighting in Yemen and an Iran-imposed blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Foreign Minister has engaged in diplomatic calls with Pakistan's army chief and met with China's Foreign Minister, who urged restraint and the reopening of the Strait. China has expressed willingness to play a role in peace efforts.

Saudi Arabia is seeking assistance from regional and Western allies due to a depletion of its missile interceptor supplies. The kingdom has requested air defense support from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt to counter missile and drone attacks from Houthi rebels and other Iran-backed groups. This appeal stems from a reduction in the United States' own interceptor stock, a key supplier to Saudi Arabia. The request comes as Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of attempting to attack Mecca with a drone, an accusation the Houthis deny. The ongoing conflict in Yemen, described as a front in a broader Iran war, highlights Saudi Arabia's need for both military aid and secure oil exports.

Saudi authorities reported shooting down a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday, following security alerts for incoming projectiles in western areas including Mecca and Jeddah. The US embassy in Saudi Arabia issued a "reconsider travel" advisory, citing Houthi attacks on various targets. The Houthis, who have recently gained control of parts of Yemen's Red Sea coast, including the port city of Mokha and Perim Island, deny targeting the Islamic holy city. They stated they pose no threat to international shipping but will target vessels from Saudi Arabia. This comes as Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline was damaged in a strike blamed on Iran-backed militias.

Saudi Arabia's air defenses intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday, preventing it from entering prohibited airspace over the holy city. A spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition stated that the security of Islam's holiest sites and pilgrims is a "red line" and that deterrent measures will be taken against the Houthis. A Houthi official denied targeting Mecca, calling the claim a "worn-out lie." The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation condemned the incident as a "heinous" attack and blamed the Houthis. The US embassy issued an advisory to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to ongoing Houthi attacks.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Iranian counterpart in Beijing on Wednesday, reaffirming China's support for Iran. Wang called for a political resolution to Iran's conflict with the United States and cautioned against regional tensions escalating into Yemen. He also advocated for the prompt reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This meeting occurred as the US expanded sanctions against Iran and threatened measures against entities supporting Tehran, including Chinese companies. The conflict is expected to be a significant topic during an upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump.

China has stated its willingness to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with Iran and safeguard its legitimate rights and interests. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed this to his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, during a meeting in Beijing. Wang also commented that the current situation highlights flaws in the Middle East's existing security architecture, suggesting it needs reform. He encouraged Iran and the US to remain rational and restrained, urging all parties to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent regional tensions from escalating to Yemen and the Red Sea. China, a major economic partner of Iran, aims to promote peace and justice in the region.

An attack on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, launched from Iraqi territory on September 10th, has highlighted Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's struggle to control armed factions. While no group has claimed responsibility, a senior Iraqi Interior Ministry source suggests a "splinter" resistance group may be responsible, indicating factions operating outside state command. This incident follows previous drone attacks from Iraq on Saudi oil facilities in July, which led to retaliatory strikes by the US and Saudi forces. Prime Minister al-Zaidi has responded by sacking a local commander and ordering an investigation, but these actions are seen by some as a show to appease international pressure. The attacks threaten to undermine warming relations between Iraq and Saudi Arabia and may be a message to al-Zaidi's efforts to diversify Iraq's economy and engage more with Saudi Arabia, potentially against the interests of Iran and its associated factions.

Yemen's Houthi militants have seized the strategic islands of Greater and Lesser Hanish in the Red Sea, strengthening their control over a key shipping route near the Bab al-Mandab strait. This advance, following the capture of the port of Mokha and Perim island, occurs as global concerns grow over a potential oil supply crisis. The closure of Saudi Arabia's east-west oil pipeline, vital for moving oil to the Red Sea, further exacerbates these fears, with experts warning of significant supply disruptions and potential price increases. The Houthi leadership claims they are only targeting Saudi-linked ships, but the impact on global oil supplies, particularly for African and Asian markets, is a significant concern.

Houthi rebels have escalated the conflict in Yemen by seizing key positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, including the Hanish islands and the port city of Mocha. This advance tightens their control over a vital global energy route, following Iran's earlier actions to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia faces heightened threats to its oil exports, evidenced by a drone strike that temporarily shut down its East-West Pipeline. Analysts suggest Saudi Arabia must consider military options, potentially involving new defense agreements with Pakistan and Turkiye, and relying on US support. However, the US has shown reluctance for direct military action against the Houthis, with President Trump reportedly refusing Saudi requests for intervention and the US engaging in direct talks with the rebels.

Satellite imagery reveals significant damage to a crucial oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia following a strike last week. Experts estimate repairs could take over a month, potentially impacting global oil supplies by up to 3.6 million barrels per day. The damage is concentrated at a pumping station along the East-West Pipeline, which is vital for Saudi oil exports via the Red Sea. The Saudi government has accused Iranian-backed militias in Iraq of the strike, which occurred after renewed missile and drone attacks by Yemen's Houthi group, also backed by Iran. The Houthis have recently intensified their campaign, seizing territory and strengthening their ability to enforce a blockade of Saudi shipping. Saudi Arabia has stated it will respond firmly to these attacks.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting Beijing for the second time since February 2026 to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. These meetings occur ahead of a planned meeting between US President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting China's role as a self-proclaimed neutral party seeking an end to the US-Iran war. President Xi has promoted a four-point plan for de-escalation in the Middle East and urged BRICS nations to act as peacemakers. Araghchi will also discuss Iran's nuclear program, which the UN nuclear watchdog has referred to the UN Security Council, though China and Russia oppose new measures. The US continues to impose sanctions on Iran, targeting entities facilitating dealings with the country, including some China-linked refineries, though major Chinese banks have not been directly sanctioned. China remains Iran's largest crude oil buyer and has vowed to protect its interests.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in China on Wednesday. This meeting occurs as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate Middle East conflicts have stalled. The talks are taking place as Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares for a summit with US President Donald Trump next week, where Iran and the Strait of Hormuz are expected to be discussed. Fighting has resumed in Yemen between Iran-aligned Houthis and Yemeni government forces, as well as Saudi Arabia. A planned regional meeting involving Iran, Iraq, and Gulf Cooperation Council nations to address conflicts and the Strait of Hormuz was postponed indefinitely, reportedly due to Saudi Arabian objections.

The United Nations reports that over 100,000 people have been displaced within Yemen due to intensifying conflict between the government and Houthi forces. Escalating hostilities along the western coast have also compelled thousands to undertake a perilous maritime journey across the Bab al-Mandeb strait to seek safety in Djibouti. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) warns this displacement risks a humanitarian crisis, straining resources in both Yemen and Djibouti. The agency requires an estimated $14 million in new funding to address the urgent needs of displaced families, including shelter, food, water, and healthcare. The displacement began with a Houthi advance that secured control of Yemen's Red Sea coast and the strategic Bab al-Mandeb waterway.

Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, a crucial artery bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, has been temporarily closed following drone attacks. The 1,200km pipeline, which transports approximately 4 to 5 million barrels of oil per day, links eastern oil fields to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. This shutdown, described as a precautionary measure due to damage and injuries, impacts up to 5% of global oil supply. The closure exacerbates existing disruptions to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which have been severely reduced due to the US-Israel war on Iran. While Saudi Arabia has some buffer from existing stocks, the prolonged closure could further deplete global inventories and potentially lead to higher oil prices.

Oil prices have surged above $108 a barrel following drone attacks launched from Iraq that forced Saudi Arabia to close its east-west crude pipeline. This closure threatens to deplete Saudi oil export stocks within days, impacting approximately 4% of global supply. The attacks, attributed by US President Donald Trump to Iran, occurred amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, including Houthi forces capturing the Bab al-Mandab strait. In response to these disruptions, AI industry leaders are calling for a slowdown in "reckless" AI development, proposing safety standards and international coordination. Separately, a report by B'Tselem accuses Israel of systematically eliminating conditions for Palestinian collective life in the West Bank.

Oil prices surged above $108 a barrel after drone attacks forced Saudi Arabia to shut down its East-West crude pipeline. This price hike occurred as Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi forces attacked Saudi infrastructure and captured the strategic island of Perim in the Bab al-Mandab strait. Market concerns were further amplified by the postponement of a meeting between Gulf states and Tehran regarding a temporary shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz. Traders warn Saudi Arabia could exhaust export oil stocks if the pipeline remains closed. The attacks and disruptions contribute to rising global inflation, posing challenges for central bankers.

Gulf states have postponed a crucial meeting with Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz due to a lack of Arab consensus and escalating Saudi anger over Iran's support for Houthi rebels in Yemen. This delay coincides with intensified Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi military targets, including King Khalid airbase, and a recent drone attack that shut down Saudi Arabia's east-west oil pipeline. The Houthi seizure of Yemen's Bab al-Mandab strait, another vital waterway, along with the pipeline closure and meeting postponement, contributed to a rise in oil prices. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held discussions with the US CENTCOM chief regarding regional developments. The postponed meeting aimed to discuss a temporary shipping route, but Iran has set preconditions for any agreement.

Yemeni government forces have advanced in western Taiz province after repelling a Houthi offensive. These forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, retook positions with support from air strikes targeting Houthi gatherings. Meanwhile, the Houthis claimed to have launched dozens of ballistic missiles and drones targeting military facilities and infrastructure at King Khalid airbase in Khamis Mushait, Saudi Arabia. The Houthis stated these attacks were a response to a Saudi offensive involving over 300 air strikes across Yemen. Fighting in Yemen has intensified since July, jeopardizing a UN-brokered truce.

A planned meeting in Oman between Iran, Iraq, and GCC nations (excluding Bahrain) to discuss temporary routes through the Strait of Hormuz has been postponed. Saudi Arabia requested the postponement, citing concerns about the wording of a proposed Iran-Oman deal that could establish an unacceptable status quo. This comes amid recent drone attacks on Saudi Arabia, which the US attributes to Iran, and Houthi attacks in Yemen. Iran stated it will continue to pursue its bilateral agreement with Oman for temporary commercial vessel routes in the strait. The proposed deal involves inbound routes through Iranian waters and outbound routes mostly through Omani waters.

Iran has announced the postponement of a meeting with Gulf state officials concerning the Strait of Hormuz, citing "events unfolding in Yemen." Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the decision, made jointly with Oman, aims for a responsible approach to managing the strait. Baghaei emphasized that Iran has no involvement in Yemeni affairs and does not interfere in its domestic matters, despite Saudi Arabia's request for the postponement. The meeting, intended to showcase significant decisions regarding the strait, was scheduled to take place in Oman. Baghaei also asserted that no responsible country would accept external dictation or pressure. Separately, Iran's IRGC reported intercepting and destroying an MQ-1 drone over the Strait of Hormuz.

Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, are conducting air attacks to counter Houthi advances, particularly in attempts to retake the strategic port city of Mocha. The Houthis recently captured Mocha and Mayyun Island, consolidating their control over the vital Bab al-Mandeb strait. These intensified clashes have displaced tens of thousands of Yemenis. Government forces are regrouping in Marib, aiming to restore control of Sanaa and other areas. Saudi Arabia has reportedly carried out over 100 air strikes in the past 48 hours, targeting Houthi positions and military buildups. Analysts suggest internal divisions within government forces are hindering their efforts against the Houthis.

The Iran-allied Houthis claim to have attacked a Saudi military base in Sharurah using drones and missiles, targeting weapons depots and command centers. This attack occurred amidst renewed fighting between Houthi forces and Yemeni government troops, which has caused a significant increase in civilian displacement. Yemeni government forces reported striking Houthi positions in the Red Sea city of Mocha and other areas. The ongoing clashes follow a Houthi offensive that solidified their control over Yemen's Red Sea coast and the Bab al-Mandab strait. Saudi authorities reported a Houthi projectile landing near the border, causing injuries and damage. The UN's migration agency stated that 76,000 people have fled fighting since July.

Houthi fighters announced on Sunday they launched drone and missile attacks on the Sharurah military base in southern Saudi Arabia. A Houthi military spokesman stated the targets were weapons depots and command centers involved in the conflict. This attack comes amidst intensified fighting between the Iran-allied Houthis and Yemeni government forces, who are supported by Saudi Arabia. Yemeni government forces reported striking Houthi fighters in Mocha and other positions in the southwestern region. Separately, a news report indicated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman twice requested strikes against the Houthis from US President Donald Trump last week, but these requests were denied.

Talks between Iran and Gulf Arab states in Oman have been postponed at the request of some regional countries, according to Iranian media. The decision was a joint one by Tehran and Muscat, with Oman's Foreign Minister stating the delay was "in the interests of consensus" and to foster dialogue supporting regional stability. This postponement occurred shortly after an attack on an Iranian cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. Oman has been a mediator in regional disputes and is directly affected by navigation issues in the Strait of Hormuz. Previously, Oman proposed a regional mechanism for shared control and voluntary fees for vessels transiting the strait, a proposal Iran rejected, advocating for compulsory payments.

Iran plans to hold talks with Iraq and Gulf nations in Oman on Monday to discuss regional security and the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blockaded. Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the meeting aims to foster understanding and strengthen regional security without foreign intervention. However, Bahrain, a GCC member, will not attend, citing recent Iranian attacks and stating that regional security cannot be maintained through appeasement. Bahrain also indicated it will not participate in collective meetings with Iran until diplomatic relations are restored. The talks come amidst escalating attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route.

Iraqi security forces have seized a drone-launching platform in Maysan province, southeastern Iraq, near the Iranian border. This platform is alleged to have been used in a drone attack that struck Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline on Thursday. Saudi authorities traced the launch site to this location. The attack injured several people and led Saudi Arabia to shut down the pipeline as a precaution. Iraq's Security Media Cell stated that intelligence and security forces tracked and seized the equipment, and forensic experts are working to identify those responsible. Iraq is communicating with Saudi authorities and has approved Iran's request to join the investigation. Iraq's stance is to prevent its territory from being used as a launching pad for attacks against other countries.

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down its critical East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack on Friday, September 11, 2026. The attack, which caused damage and injuries, is understood to have originated from Iraq's Maysan province. Baghdad has launched an investigation and closed its border with Iran as a precautionary measure, condemning the use of its territory for such strikes. No group has claimed responsibility, but an analyst suggests Iran-backed groups may be involved to pressure Saudi Arabia regarding its involvement in Yemen. Saudi Arabia has stated it will not retaliate at this stage, at the request of the Iraqi Prime Minister, but reserves the right to protect its interests. This closure further disrupts Saudi oil exports, which are already impacted by the Strait of Hormuz closure.

Nearly 50,000 Yemeni civilians have fled their homes due to a rapid advance by Houthi forces along the Red Sea coast in western Yemen. This escalation threatens to turn the ongoing conflict into a prolonged war, with Houthi militants seizing towns and strategic areas, including the port city of Mocha. The fighting has resulted in casualties and significant displacement, with families trapped near frontlines facing dwindling food supplies. The conflict's proximity to the Bab al-Mandab strait, a vital global shipping route, raises concerns about its impact on international trade and energy prices. Aid workers are struggling to provide essential services to the displaced, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation and the potential for further escalation.

Yemeni government forces report launching air strikes against Houthi fighters along the Red Sea coast, specifically near the port city of Mocha. These strikes targeted Houthi members and vehicles, with government forces describing the confrontation as a "battle for survival." The escalation follows the Houthis' full control of the strategic shoreline, including the city of Mocha and the island of Mayun, which secures the vital Bab al-Mandeb strait. The United Nations has reported nearly 46,000 displaced people due to the recent fighting, and the fall of Mocha has complicated aid delivery. Additionally, Saudi Arabia temporarily closed its East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack.

Saudi authorities reported that drones launched from Iraq caused a temporary shutdown of the crucial East-West oil pipeline on Friday. This pipeline is vital for Saudi oil exports, particularly since the Strait of Hormuz has been affected by the ongoing Middle East war. The attacks, which resulted in some injuries and damage, originated from Iraq's Maysan province, leading to the dismissal of its commander. The Iraqi prime minister's office confirmed the attack's origin and condemned it. Saudi Arabia stated it would not retaliate at this stage, supporting Iraq's efforts to prevent such attacks. The incident occurred as Houthi forces expanded their control in the Bab al-Mandab strait, a key shipping route.

Iraq is investigating drone attacks on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline that were launched from its territory. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has dismissed a commander and ordered an investigation into the operations command in Maysan province, where drone launchers were discovered. In response, Iraq has temporarily closed three border crossings with Iran: Shalamcheh, al-Shib, and Mandali, citing concerns that perpetrators might flee to Iran. Iraq's Prime Minister's office confirmed the attack originated from Maysan province. Iraq has also agreed to Iran's request for a joint investigation into the discovery of drone launch platforms near the border. The drone attack occurred on Thursday, prompting Saudi Arabia to temporarily suspend the oil pipeline route.

Saudi Arabia has shut down a key oil pipeline following a drone attack launched from Iraq. The attack originated from the Maysan governorate, a region bordering Iran. In response, Iraq has removed its operations commander in Maysan and initiated investigations into the incident. Saudi Arabia stated it reserves the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security. The Gulf Co-operation Council condemned the attack as a dangerous escalation and a violation of international law. The article also notes recent Houthi advances in Yemen, with the group claiming control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, though stating maritime navigation is safe except for Saudi vessels.

Iranian officials and state media are celebrating the Houthi group's recent capture of Yemen's Red Sea coast, including the vital Bab al-Mandeb strait. This development is seen by some in Iran as increasing Tehran's leverage against the United States. Senior Iranian officials, including the IRGC spokesman and the Iranian parliament speaker, have praised the Houthi advances as a "divine triumph" and a result of "steadfastness." The Houthis, who have been fighting the Yemeni government since 2014, have stated that maritime navigation remains safe except for Saudi vessels. While the Houthis now control territory adjacent to the Bab al-Mandeb strait, Iranian officials have not indicated any plans to close the waterway.

The Iran-backed Houthis have claimed a significant advance in Yemen, reportedly seizing the strategic island of Perim, which lies on a major Red Sea shipping route. This escalation of conflict, which began a week ago with a Houthi offensive in the south-west, has led to hundreds of deaths and thousands displaced. The Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait are crucial for Saudi Arabia's oil shipments to Asia, and the intensified fighting has contributed to rising oil prices. In response to the Houthi actions, a Saudi-led coalition has conducted air strikes in western Yemen, while the Houthis have launched missiles and drones at Saudi targets. The International Organization for Migration reports that at least 46,000 people have been displaced by the conflict, with families fleeing multiple times.

Saudi Arabia has closed its East-West oil pipeline, a vital alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, following multiple attacks on Thursday. The Ministry of Energy stated the closure was a precautionary measure, with emergency teams working to secure the pipeline and assess its safety after the attacks resulted in several injuries. This action comes amid intensified fighting in the Middle East, with Yemen-based Houthis claiming responsibility for targeting Saudi energy facilities. The East-West pipeline is a critical route for Saudi oil exports, capable of transporting 7 million barrels per day, and had reached full capacity when tanker traffic was previously disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz.

Houthi forces have captured Yemen's entire Red Sea coastline, reaching the crucial Bab al-Mandeb shipping gateway after seizing the port city of Mocha. This rapid offensive, which resumed last week, gives the Iran-backed group significant control over a vital global trade route. The Houthis had previously declared a blockade on Saudi-flagged ships and have been launching attacks on vessels passing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which is increasingly relied upon by Saudi Arabia for oil exports following blockades of the Strait of Hormuz. Experts warn that Houthi control of this corridor could exacerbate the global energy crisis and further damage Saudi oil exports, with potential implications for the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

Saudi Arabia reported that its East-West oil pipeline was struck by drones originating from Iraq, causing injuries and material damage in the Riyadh and Medina regions. In response, Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted operations of the pipeline as a precautionary measure. The Kingdom has stated it will not retaliate at this time, following a request from Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, who has ordered an investigation into those responsible for the attack. Iraq has condemned the drone strike, affirming its rejection of any aggression that threatens Saudi security and stability. Saudi Arabia reserves the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and critical facilities.

Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to take direct military action against Iran-backed Houthis following their seizure of key positions along Yemen's Bab al-Mandab Strait. This strategic waterway is a critical global shipping choke point. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly discussed the escalating situation with President Donald Trump, who stated Washington would provide intelligence and targeting support but not direct military action for now. U.S. Central Command commander Adm. Brad Cooper traveled to Saudi Arabia for coordination talks. Experts suggest Iran is leveraging the Houthi advance to regain maritime leverage as pressure on the Strait of Hormuz intensifies. The Houthis' recent gains, including the port of Mocha and the island of Mayyun, follow years of rebuilding military strength since a 2022 truce.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reports that over 46,000 people have been displaced in Yemen due to escalating fighting between Houthi rebels and government forces. This figure is reportedly rising hourly. The IOM is calling for safe humanitarian access and protection for civilians and aid workers. Many families are fleeing for the second or third time, often with few possessions, after the Houthi rebels captured the strategically important Red Sea port city of Mocha. The UN also expressed concern over the Houthis seizing a key humanitarian compound in Mocha, emphasizing the need to protect humanitarian personnel and facilities. The conflict has intensified with reports of Houthis now controlling Yemen's entire Red Sea coast.

Yemen's Houthi movement has reportedly seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha from Saudi-backed pro-government forces. This capture brings the Iran-backed group closer to controlling the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital shipping route. The offensive in the south-western coastal region, which began a week ago, has resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands displaced. Simultaneously, the Houthis have escalated attacks on neighboring Saudi Arabia, launching drones and missiles that injured civilians and damaged oil facilities, leading to a surge in global oil prices. The Houthis stated these actions were retaliation for Saudi air strikes on their territory, including a prison attack that killed civilians. The conflict, ongoing for over a decade, has seen a recent unraveling of an informal ceasefire, with the Houthis imposing a "maritime embargo" and attacking Saudi infrastructure.

Yemen's Houthi forces have seized the strategic Red Sea city of Mocha, expanding their control over the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a vital global trade route. The internationally recognized Yemeni government forces withdrew from the city on Thursday. Analysts state this move represents a significant blow to the government and allows the Houthis to monitor international trade, as Bab al-Mandeb handles 10-12 percent of global trade. The Houthis' objective was to push west of Taiz and secure control of Yemen's Red Sea coast. Yemen's ambassador to Qatar accused Iran of reigniting the war and using the Houthis to control shipping routes. Saudi Arabia has warned Pakistan that its defense pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye could become operational if Houthi attacks on Saudi territory continue.

Yemeni Houthi rebels have seized the key port of Mocha, intensifying fighting along the Red Sea coast. This move is seen as an attempt to gain control of the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a vital shipping chokepoint, potentially bringing Iran and its proxies closer to controlling two major maritime routes. The Houthis aim to pressure Saudi Arabia and the US into lifting the blockade on Iranian oil tankers. This escalation, the most serious since a 2022 ceasefire, has resulted in significant casualties and the opening of new fronts. Saudi Arabia has responded with airstrikes, while the Yemeni government forces have admitted to strategic retreats. Observers believe a reduction in hostilities is unlikely as both sides escalate their efforts.

Iran-backed Houthi forces have seized Yemen's port city of Mocha and are advancing towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical global shipping chokepoint. This move, occurring as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is already constrained, threatens another vital trade route connecting the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and Suez Canal. The Houthis' advance, reportedly aided by Iranian arms and guidance, puts pressure on shipping lanes on both sides of the Arabian Peninsula, potentially increasing oil and goods prices. The United States is focused on ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and is in dialogue with regional partners. The seizure of Mocha and surrounding areas, coupled with the withdrawal of Saudi-backed forces, has also provided the Houthis with captured military materiel.

Yemeni government forces and Iran-aligned Houthis are engaged in fierce battles across multiple fronts in northern, western, and central Yemen, with both sides seeking to expand their territorial control. Recent fighting has resulted in significant casualties. The Houthis are intensifying efforts to gain a foothold on the western coast, particularly near the strategic al-Makha port, aiming to influence Red Sea shipping lanes. Meanwhile, government forces are battling to expand in Taiz and reinforce their control over the oil-producing Marib region. Fighting also continues in al-Jawf and Dhalea, areas crucial for connecting Houthi-controlled north to the south. Experts suggest that gains or losses on these fronts could have significant strategic consequences for both the government and the Houthis.