Saudi-Backed Forces Secure Control of Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces claim control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key oil route, from Houthi forces, though fighting continues. The Houthi group denies the claims and threatens to attack Saudi airspace.

Why it matters. The control of the strait affects global energy markets and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.