Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized control of the strategic port city of Mokha on Thursday, an advance that could expand their leverage in regional conflicts and disrupt critical maritime trade lanes, according to local and official sources.
Mokha is located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a chokepoint through which roughly 12% of global commerce typically passes. The capture of this coastal hub represents the group’s most significant territorial gain since a ceasefire was established in 2022 to halt a decade-long civil war.
The takeover raises concerns among analysts that the Houthis may intensify threats against shipping in the Red Sea, providing Tehran with additional bargaining power in its ongoing conflict with the United States. This pressure comes as maritime traffic through the nearby Strait of Hormuz has already been impeded by Iran, making the Bab el-Mandeb increasingly vital for global oil supplies.
Ahmed Baash, a commander in the National Resistance Forces allied with Yemen’s internationally recognized government, and Hazam al-Assad, a member of the Houthi political bureau, both confirmed the operation to The Associated Press. Residents in Mokha reported seeing Houthi vehicles throughout the city and noted that markets had closed.
Amin al-Mohammdi, a resident of Mokha, stated that roads leading into the city from the west coast had been blocked. Another resident, Mohamed Salem, observed military vehicles belonging to Houthi forces on the streets.
The shift in control has triggered displacement, with doctors at a local hospital telling AP they fled after the facility was taken over. Citing safety concerns, the medical staff spoke on condition of anonymity. Other residents are reportedly moving south toward Aden, which remains under the control of Saudi-backed government forces.
The Houthis, who have fought Yemen’s government since 2014, recently increased their military activities in the western province of Taiz, where Mokha is situated. While the rebels initially remained on the sidelines when the broader Iran war began, they have since escalated attacks and declared a blockade on Saudi Arabia, a key supporter of the Yemeni government.
Mokha coffee is world-famous. I hope the cultural heritage sites aren’t damaged in the fighting.
Did they actually hold it? Or is this just temporary tactical movement before government counterattacks return?
Tehran seems to be tightening the noose from two sides. Iran’s leverage just got much stronger.
Scary to hear about the hospital takeover. Hope the displaced families find safe shelter soon.
This is a serious escalation. 12% of global commerce passes nearby, so supply chains are already worried.