The situation in Yemen is becoming increasingly tense. In recent days, media outlets close to Saudi Arabia have been widely reporting on the rapid offensive by Yemeni government forces and their advances in areas controlled by the Houthis. It was reported that a number of settlements had come under the control of government forces, that the offensive would continue, and that, as a result, the road to Sanaa could be opened.

However, on September 10, the direction of events suddenly changed. The Houthis launched an unexpected counterattack and captured the strategically important city of Mocha on the Red Sea coast. This ancient port city, located in Taiz province, is of particular importance due to its proximity to the Bab al-Mandab Strait. According to Reuters, the Houthis then advanced towards the strategic Hanish Islands in the Red Sea. Yemeni military sources also reported that government forces had abandoned Mocha and retreated further south towards Dhubab. Dhubab is located directly opposite the Bab al-Mandab Strait, near the island of Perim (Mayun).

The significance of these events is not limited to the loss of just one city. The capture of Mocha has brought the Houthis closer to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s most important sea lanes. If they can consolidate their position........

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