Yemen’s Houthi rebels have seized control of the coastal town of Dhubab, strategically located opposite Perim Island in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The move marks a significant step in the terror group’s efforts to tighten its grip on the region’s main shipping routes. The information came from official sources within Yemen’s government, who are warning of the implications.
According to two Yemeni government sources who spoke to Reuters, control of the coastal town of Dhubab and nearby Perim Island is the key to holding the entire Bab al-Mandab Strait. The Houthis continue operating in the area with the intent to expand their influence over strategic points that directly affect freedom of navigation and maritime security in the region.
The Houthi forces’ takeover of the town poses a direct threat to the narrow and vital maritime passage through which a substantial portion of global trade flows. Yemeni government officials emphasized that holding the territory gives the rebels effective control over activity in the strait. Regional powers are closely monitoring the group’s next moves in the strategic area.