Yemen’s Houthi forces have reached the strategic Red Sea port of Mocha and taken control of Zuqar Island, after government forces withdrew from the area, according to reports Thursday.
The Iran-backed group also claimed the districts of Hais and Al-Khawkhah in western Taiz province during its westward push, putting it in position to isolate Mocha and pressure supply lines between Taiz and Al-Hudaydah provinces. If confirmed, control of both districts would give the Houthis complete dominance over Al-Hudaydah province.
Mocha’s significance lies in its proximity to the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Suez Canal, through which roughly 10 to 12 percent of global trade passes. Zuqar Island holds added strategic value for monitoring shipping and naval movement near the strait. Analysts note the strait’s narrowness, around 12 miles, means a force holding its shores can threaten passing vessels with artillery alone, without missiles or drones.
The advance marks one of the broadest escalations in Yemen’s conflict since 2022, following a stalled UN-sponsored truce and the resumption of military confrontations in July. Saudi Arabia has backed the internationally recognized Yemeni government forces battling the Houthis.
Source: Anadolu Agency (AA)
