Red Sea Hold‑Up: Houthi Push Threatens Global Oil Flow

Fri Sep 11 2026 18:04:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels seize lands near the Bab al‑Mandeb Strait, risking global trade and oil exports as Saudi Arabia shifts shipping routes.

Houthi fighters have captured territory close to the Bab al‑Mandeb Strait, a vital gateway between Asia and Europe. While the group says it poses no threat to international shipping, it has warned it will target Saudi vessels. With Saudi Arabia increasingly using the Red Sea for oil exports after the Strait of Hormuz was closed, the move could disrupt trade flows. The conflict has already displaced over 46,000 Yemenis, according to the UN.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have taken control of strategic areas near the Bab al‑Mandeb Strait, a crucial link that funnels cargo from Asia to Europe.

The group insists it isn’t threatening international shipping, but it has re‑affirmed its intention to attack vessels sailing under Saudi arms.

Saudi Arabia now relies more heavily on the Red Sea route for oil exports, especially after hostilities between Israel and the U.S. pushed an alternative route via the Strait of Hormuz.

The United Nations states that at least 46,000 people have been displaced in Yemen since fighting escalated last week.

Produced by Aisha Sembhi. Graphics by Mark Edwards.