The Houthis have seized control of Mayun Island in the Red Sea, completing a push to dominate the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait, according to a local Yemeni government official and eyewitness accounts.
The island, also known as Perim Island, sits at the entrance to one of the world's busiest maritime routes and divides the strait into two shipping channels.
Government forces reportedly withdrew
A local government official told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that Houthi fighters arrived on the island after government forces withdrew from the position.
"Boats carrying Houthi militants arrived on Mayun Island after government forces left the island yesterday," the official said.
No immediate comment was available from the Houthis regarding the reported operation.
Witnesses report military presence
An eyewitness told AFP that armed Houthi fighters were deploying along the coast of the Bab al-Mandab area and moving around in military vehicles.
The reported deployment comes amid continuing conflict in Yemen and heightened tensions across key shipping lanes in the Red Sea region.
Strategic significance
Mayun's location gives it significant strategic value because it overlooks the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital maritime corridor linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Control of the island could strengthen oversight of shipping traffic passing through one of the world's most important trade and energy routes.
Source: AFP/CNA
