Yemen’s western coast saw a dramatic shift early this week when Iran‑backed Houthi fighters overran the historic port city of Mocha and, the following day, seized Perim Island at the mouth of the Red Sea. The swift 36‑hour offensive has raised concerns about the security of the Bab al‑Mandeb Strait, a vital conduit for global commerce.
Houthi advance and regional response
According to a senior Yemeni military source, the Houthis deployed “waves upon waves of fighters” along with ballistic missiles and other weapons. The source contacted United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and was told the United States was closely monitoring the situation and that Saudi air support was forthcoming. However, the promised Saudi air strikes never materialized, and Mocha fell to the rebels.
Hours later, Houthi forces captured Perim Island, which splits the Bab al‑Mandeb Strait and gives Tehran de facto control over another key shipping lane. The island’s location allows the rebels to launch attacks on commercial vessels traversing the Red Sea.
Trump administration’s stance
President Trump was briefed on the developments and, according to a source familiar with the calls, declined to order direct U.S. strikes against the Houthis. The White House issued a statement emphasizing that the United States remains focused on protecting core national security interests, including “ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea,” while empowering regional partners to lead the response.
“We are in continuous dialogue with Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Yemen Government regarding regional stability,” the statement read. This approach underscores the administration’s commitment to a balanced strategy that supports allies without over‑extending U.S. forces.
Criticism of Saudi and U.S. coordination
Regional observers have sharply criticized the lack of Saudi air support. One source described the episode as “a Saudi‑American f***‑up of epic proportions,” blaming delayed decision‑making in Riyadh and Washington. Another analyst, Mohammed al‑Basha, argued that internal divisions among Yemeni leaders also contributed to the rapid Houthi gains, noting a “lack of political cohesion” within the anti‑Houthi coalition.
Further complicating the picture, the United Arab Emirates withdrew its remaining forces from Yemen in January, leaving a vacuum that Saudi Arabia has not filled. The Southern Transitional Council (STC) official Amr Al‑Bidh warned that the Houthis can leverage simple weapons, such as a cannon mounted on a vehicle, to threaten the Bab al‑Mandeb without advanced armaments.
U.S. presence in the region
Despite the setbacks, the United States maintains a modest advisory footprint in Saudi Arabia. Five sources confirmed that more than 100 U.S. military advisers are providing intelligence and targeting support to the Kingdom, with the total U.S. presence estimated at roughly 200 personnel. These advisers operate under a newly established joint forces command created in recent weeks as Iran’s influence in the region appears to be growing.
The administration’s focus on diplomatic engagement and regional partnership aligns with its broader strategy of safeguarding American economic interests, especially as oil prices could be affected by disruptions in both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al‑Mandeb ahead of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.
Looking ahead
Analysts anticipate that the Houthis may continue eastward, using newly captured positions to launch further maritime attacks. Satellite imagery and open‑source intelligence suggest ongoing mobilization along Yemen’s western coast.
President Trump’s measured response reflects a commitment to protect American interests while allowing allies to assume primary responsibility for regional security. As the situation evolves, the administration will likely continue its dialogue with Saudi Arabia and Yemen to ensure the Red Sea remains open for global trade.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
