For centuries, the Bab al-Mandab Strait has served as one of the world's great maritime arteries, linking Europe with Asia and carrying the lifeblood of international commerce. Whoever threatens this narrow gateway risks provoking the combined wrath of every nation whose prosperity depends upon free navigation. The Iranian-backed Houthis have now done exactly that. By declaring a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia and threatening every commercial vessel trading with Saudi ports, the Houthis have committed what could prove the gravest strategic error in their history. Having already terrorized shipping under the false banner of solidarity with Gaza, they have abandoned every pretense and revealed their true purpose, advancing Tehran's campaign to destabilize the Middle East and strangle the global economy.

This represents far more than another episode in Yemen's long-running conflict. It opens a dangerous second front in Iran's confrontation with Saudi Arabia and the West. Timing makes this decision even more reckless. Iran has already unleashed missile attacks against Saudi territory while effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, through which around a quarter of the world's oil and gas supplies normally pass. Rather than easing tensions, the Houthis have chosen this precise moment to threaten the Kingdom's alternative export route through the Red Sea. That amounts to placing both hands around the throat of Saudi Arabia's economy. Such a challenge was always destined to provoke a powerful response.

For years Riyadh demonstrated remarkable restraint. Despite relentless missile and drone attacks on airports, oil installations, and civilian infrastructure, Saudi leaders consistently pursued diplomacy, recognizing that economic transformation offered greater rewards than endless war. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 depends upon regional stability, foreign investment, and secure energy........

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