Houthi forces have seized control of the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait and adjacent Red Sea territories, according to reports from Agence France-Presse and regional reporting from Kermalkom. The offensive, which escalated last week, included the capture of Perim Island (Miyon) and the strategic heights of Mount Kahboub, tightening a military ring around Taiz and leaving thousands of government troops besieged across Red Sea islands.
Bab el-Mandeb Control and Perim Island Landings
Houthi fighters completed their takeover of the Bab el-Mandeb region after deploying via small boats to Perim Island, located in the middle of the strategic shipping lane, according to a Yemeni government official cited by Agence France-Presse. Local witnesses reported armed fighters moving along the Bab el-Mandeb coastline in military vehicles. While the initial force on Perim Island was small, local officials stated that the fighters’ primary objective was securing the high ground overlooking the maritime chokepoint.
This naval and coastal advance followed the fall of Mokha on the Red Sea coast, which provided Houthi forces the logistical footing needed to push directly toward the strait. Reporting by Kermalkom noted that fighters subsequently secured the Kahboub mountain range, a high-elevation ridge dominating the Bab el-Mandeb passage and surrounding coastal sectors.
Island Sieges and Stranded Government Troops
Military sources told Agence France-Presse that Houthi forces have surrounded government troops stationed on Greater and Lesser Hanish islands. Four strategic islands in the Red Sea were previously held by government forces, including Zugar Island—seized by the Houthis—along with Perim and the Hanish group.
Government military sources reported that more than 2,000 troops remain stranded across the islands amid demands to surrender from advancing forces. A senior military official told Agence France-Presse that the besieged garrison has urgently requested food, water, and evacuation support, noting that relief efforts require sustained air cover.
Renewed Offensive and Taiz Encircling Strategy
The latest maritime gains are part of a broader offensive launched across northern and southern Yemen, triggering heavy battles that have left hundreds dead, according to Agence France-Presse. Military sources confirmed that Houthi units have occupied mountain positions south of Taiz, attempting to re-establish a complete siege around the contested city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which islands have Houthi forces captured in the Red Sea?
According to Agence France-Presse and Kermalkom reports, Houthi forces have seized Zugar Island, Perim Island (Miyon), and have surrounded government troops on Greater and Lesser Hanish islands.
What is the strategic significance of Mount Kahboub?
Local sources reported that the Kahboub mountain range acts as a commanding vantage point over the Bab el-Mandeb strait, coastal shipping lanes, and surrounding territory.
How many government troops are reported trapped on the islands?
Government military sources estimate that over 2,000 personnel are currently cut off and surrounded on the Hanish islands.
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