Houthi rebels have reportedly taken control of a key Red Sea port, raising trade concerns. Fox News contributor Marc Thiessen discussed these developments with Brian Kilmeade. The conversation highlighted national security worries and the broader Middle East geopolitical conflict. Saudi Arabia is pushing for direct U.S. military action against the Iran-backed Houthis. They seized critical positions along Yemen’s Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital shipping choke point connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
With the ongoing Iran conflict disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, these strategic advances prompted urgent discussions in Riyadh and Washington. A source informed Fox News Digital that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged former President Donald Trump to take military action against the Houthis. Despite not opting for direct military intervention, Trump assured intelligence and targeting support to Saudi Arabia. U.S. Central Command commander, Adm. Brad Cooper, visited Saudi Arabia for coordination talks, emphasizing the shared goal of ensuring safe navigation in regional waters.
Behnam Ben Taleblu, from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, remarked that while Iran loses leverage in the Strait of Hormuz, it is attempting to gain influence through Houthi advancements around Bab al-Mandab. This strategic shift highlights Tehran’s efforts to regain leverage on the maritime front.
The recent Houthi advance follows their capture of the strategic port of Mocha, impacting traffic through Bab al-Mandab, a crucial passage for global oil transport. Former U.S. special envoy for Yemen, Timothy Lenderking, noted the Houthis had rebuilt their military strength, exploiting the broader Iran conflict. Iranian Mahan Air flights into Sanaa earlier this year reportedly brought personnel and equipment to support the Houthi efforts.
Trump administration officials expressed focus on protecting national security interests and ensuring freedom of navigation in the region. The current situation presents a serious challenge for Washington and its allies. Increased Houthi pressure on Saudi Arabia underscores the complexities in regional security dynamics, as 7% of global oil output passes through the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The dwindling number of vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz adds to the pressures. Ben Taleblu warned of the vulnerabilities in the Saudi-led efforts to contain the Houthis, emphasizing the need for continued U.S. support.
Hisham Al-Omeisy from the European Institute of Peace pointed out concerns over military equipment left behind by retreating government forces. This could strengthen Houthi capabilities on other fronts, increasing the threat to regional stability. In light of these developments, the U.S. and allies are grappling with whether to contain the Houthi advances without engaging in another direct military conflict.