By Reuters Staff
ADEN/GENEVA (Reuters) – The Houthi movement in Yemen, which aligns with Iran, has indicated it may launch new attacks in the Red Sea. These moves could further disrupt international shipping and trade, following chaos from previous strikes during the Gaza conflict. One Houthi leader told Reuters that they are prepared to take action in response to developments, which could worsen the ongoing global oil and economic crisis related to the Middle East war.
If the Houthis decide to engage, a likely target would be the Bab al-Mandab Strait near Yemen. This strait is a crucial shipping route that directs traffic to the Suez Canal, especially after Iran's actions have effectively limited access to the Strait of Hormuz.
While Iran's allies in Lebanon and Iraq have joined the conflict spurred by U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, the Houthi rebels, who are well-armed and capable of disrupting maritime activities, have yet to become directly involved.
“We are fully prepared with all military options. Decisions about timing are with our leadership, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” the anonymous Houthi leader stated.
“As of now, Iran is performing well and gaining ground. If that changes, we will reassess the situation.”
Some diplomats and analysts believe the Houthis are waiting for the right moment to join the conflict in tandem with Iran to create added pressure.
The ongoing restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz could prompt Iran to act in the Bab al-Mandab Strait if it faces attacks on its territory, according to an unnamed military source cited by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency.
The Houthis have a history of launching attacks in the area. Bab al-Mandab, often referred to as the Gate of Tears due to its challenging navigation, lies between Yemen and the African countries of Djibouti and Eritrea. It is vital for global shipping, especially for transporting crude oil and fuel from the Gulf to the Mediterranean and Asia.
The strait is only 18 miles (29 km) wide at its narrowest point, allowing for limited traffic with two channels for incoming and outgoing vessels.
Following the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, the Houthis began targeting international shipping in the Red Sea, claiming their actions were in support of the Palestinians.
These attacks paused after a ceasefire was brokered by the U.S. between Israel and Hamas in October 2025.
“They will wait until Iran needs them the most before taking action,” said Amr Al-Bidh, a high-ranking member of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council, in an interview in Geneva.