The short version
- Houthi forces captured Perim island after government allies withdrew, marking a significant reversal in the conflict.
- The capture strengthens Iran's leverage over global energy shipments and raises concerns about Aden's security.
- Oil prices have surged above $100 a barrel as fears grow over potential disruptions to shipping lanes.
In a significant escalation of the conflict in Yemen, Houthi forces have captured Perim island, also known as Mayun, located in the Bab al-Mandab strait. The volcanic island sits at one of the narrowest points of the waterway, which links Asia to Europe via the Red Sea and Suez Canal. The takeover occurred after forces allied to the UN-backed, Aden-based government withdrew from the position.
This capture represents the latest in a series of dramatic reverses for the Yemeni government along the west coast. Just days prior, Houthi forces seized the port city of Mocha. In response, Saudi Arabia, which supports and bankrolls the official Yemen government, mounted air raids on Houthi positions in Mocha. Despite these efforts, the Houthis have continued their advance down the Red Sea coast from the port of Hodeidah.
The strategic importance of Perim island cannot be overstated. It divides the waterway in two and has been a focal point for regional powers. The United Arab Emirates, a former Saudi ally in the anti-Houthi coalition, had previously built an airbase on the island before ending its active involvement in the conflict in January. Now under Houthi control, the island enhances their ability to monitor and potentially disrupt shipping traffic.
Global trade relies heavily on the Bab al-Mandab strait, through which approximately 12% of the world’s goods are shipped. Saudi Arabia has increasingly depended on this route for crude oil exports since Iran began targeting vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Full Houthi control of shipping in the strait, combined with Iranian influence in the Strait of Hormuz, would significantly strengthen anti-western chokeholds on global energy supplies.
The economic impact is already evident. Oil prices have risen to more than $100 a barrel as fighting in Yemen intensifies. Iran hailed the Houthi advances in an official statement on Friday, marking its first extended comment on the renewed fighting inside Yemen since the Houthis rose to power in 2014. The alliance between Tehran and Sanaa remains a central feature of regional geopolitics.
Western capitals are growing increasingly concerned about the pace of the Houthi advance. British diplomatic sources indicated that they do not currently expect US President Donald Trump to sanction bombing of Houthi positions in Yemen, despite requests from Saudi Arabia. Political divisions within Yemeni governorates not controlled by the Houthis have left observers fearful that even Aden, the de facto capital, could fall.
The human cost of the conflict continues to mount. The UN migration agency reported that more than 46,000 people fled their homes in the past week due to the surge in fighting. Large numbers of civilians were seen leaving Mocha overnight with their belongings, highlighting the humanitarian crisis unfolding alongside the military developments.
The Houthi progress also strengthens Iran’s hand in negotiations with other Gulf states regarding future control of the Strait of Hormuz. This dispute remains a central point of tension between the US and Iran. Iran has reportedly reached an agreement on temporary approved routes with Oman, which shares the southern coast of the Hormuz strait. These developments suggest a broader strategy to consolidate leverage over key maritime passages.
As the situation evolves, the international community faces difficult decisions. The potential loss of Aden would mark a major defeat for the UN-backed government and could reshape the balance of power in Yemen. Meanwhile, the disruption to global shipping routes poses risks to energy markets and supply chains worldwide.
The capture of Perim island underscores the volatility of the region and the enduring influence of proxy conflicts. With oil prices soaring and diplomatic efforts stalled, the path forward remains uncertain. The coming weeks will likely see further assessments of military options and humanitarian responses as the crisis deepens.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian World↗Iran’s Houthi allies capture strategic island on vital oil shipping route
