Houthis seize Mocha port in strategic Red Sea advance
Houthi rebels captured the port of Mocha and strategic islands near the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical global shipping route.
Houthi forces in Yemen moved rapidly along the Red Sea coast in recent days, taking control of Mocha port and islands near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a key chokepoint linking the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean and carries oil, liquefied gas and goods for countries across Europe, Asia and Africa.
Saudi Arabia alone diverts up to 64 per cent of its oil exports through a Red Sea pipeline to its Yanbu port. Just days ago, that pipeline was hit by drones.
The attacks came from Iraq, reportedly by an Iranian-backed group. Oil prices spiked and damage is expected to take weeks to repair.
From Mocha, just 75 kilometres north of the strait, Houthis can now disrupt global shipping. They can use drones, missiles and fast boats.
The escalation suggests Iran and its allies are preparing for a prolonged conflict.
- 64 per cent
- Saudi oil diverted through pipeline
- 75 kilometres
- Distance from strait to Mocha
- Mediterranean to Indian Ocean
- Route connects
- Yanbu Port
- Saudi diverted route port
Why it mattersControl of this shipping route threatens the world's energy and supply chains, potentially raising prices for fuel and goods globally.
AustraliaAustralian importers and exporters rely on Red Sea shipping; disruption or higher freight costs could flow through to consumer prices and business margins across the country.
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