Saudi Arabia prepares offensive against Houthis to regain control of Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Saudi Arabia is preparing an offensive against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, with the main objective of regaining control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait area, one of the world’s key shipping routes linking the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. According to Reuters, the operation could begin within the coming weeks.

The ground operation is expected to be carried out by Yemeni forces aligned with Riyadh, with support from Saudi air strikes. Depending on the scenario chosen, more than 100 thsd Yemeni troops could be mobilized for the offensive.

Riyadh is considering two main options. The first involves a limited offensive along the coast to restore control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait area and secure the shipping route. The second is a much broader operation involving simultaneous attacks on several fronts, including the Yemeni provinces of Al-Bayda, Marib, Taiz and Al-Jawf.

Preparations for the operation follow a major Houthi advance in September. The group seized several areas along the Red Sea coast and reached the strategic island of Perim in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, strengthening its ability to control one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is critical to international trade as it lies on the shipping route connecting the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. Further escalation in the area could increase risks to commercial shipping, freight and cargo insurance costs, as well as food and energy supplies moving through the Red Sea.

Tags: Saudi Arabia, Yemen, war