Gulf Tensions Mount as Houthis Seize Strategic Red Sea Island
Tensions surge in the Gulf as explosions rattle Iran's Qeshm Island and Saudi Arabia issues an emergency alert. Houthi forces have reportedly seized strategic Perim Island, prompting urgent CENTCOM talks.
Tensions in the Persian Gulf escalated on Saturday as Iranian state media reported two explosions near Qeshm Island. Simultaneously, Saudi civil defense issued an emergency alert for the Abha region, warning of a potential threat linked to a missile launch from Yemen.
These developments follow reports by AFP that Houthi forces seized Perim Island (Mayun), effectively securing control over the Bab el-Mandeb strait. Reuters reported that internationally recognized government forces withdrew from the island.
Perim Island is strategically located in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, placing the Houthis far from their southern front line in Mokha. The Houthis also reportedly captured the Red Sea coastal town of Dhubab. Meanwhile, Al-Hadath sources reported two strikes targeting Houthi gatherings near Mokha airport.
CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper arrived in Saudi Arabia for urgent talks regarding Houthi advances in Yemen, Axios reported, citing two sources with direct knowledge of the matter.
