Sanaa: (RightNow) Houthis have seized the coastal city of Mocha in Yemen. This action occurred near the crucial maritime passages of the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.

The Houthis’ advance has strengthened their position along the Red Sea coast. This raises new concerns regarding the ongoing war in Yemen and the Gulf energy supply routes.

Following the capture of Mocha, the Houthis have increased pressure on government-aligned forces moving towards Taiz. This capture has further solidified their presence on Yemen’s western coast.

It is important to note that Bab al-Mandeb connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. It is a vital route for maritime trade between the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

The war in Yemen has been ongoing for several years between the Houthis and the government. The Houthis are seen as close to Iran, while Saudi Arabia is a key supporter of the government-aligned forces.