Yemeni forces have successfully thwarted a naval infiltration attempt by Houthi militants, reportedly guided by Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps experts, near the strategically vital Bab al-Mandab Strait. This incident highlights ongoing Iranian efforts to leverage the conflict in Yemen to threaten international maritime security.
Military sources confirmed that government troops stationed on Mayyun Island and surrounding areas repelled the Houthi advance after engaging militants who were allegedly operating under the supervision of Iranian advisors. The Houthi elements were forced to retreat following clashes in forward positions overlooking the strait.
Reinforcements have been deployed to the region as a precautionary measure against further attacks. Intelligence suggests the Houthi militia aims to seize strategic points that directly command the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical chokepoint through which approximately 12 percent of global trade passes. Gaining control of these positions would significantly enhance their capacity to threaten international shipping lanes.
The attempted infiltration reportedly followed a Houthi build-up of forces and equipment originating from Kamaran Island, which has allegedly been transformed into an advanced military base. This operation is part of a broader plan to execute surprise attacks, bolster their control over areas adjacent to the strait, and transition from targeting vessels with missiles and drones to establishing direct battlefield influence over this crucial global waterway.
Intelligence platform "Shibah Intelligence" has reported that the Houthis have commenced the initial operational phase of a new military strategy, which includes naval escalations concurrent with ballistic missile movements toward Saudi Arabia. The platform cited informed sources indicating the transfer of three explosive-laden, remotely operated surface vessels, along with small, unmanned underwater vehicles carrying explosives, to the protected coastal area of Al-Luhayyah on the Red Sea. This deployment is described as a prelude to surprise attacks against commercial and military vessels transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The sources also revealed that Houthi naval and coast guard leadership, along with the Fifth Military Region in Hodeidah Governorate, have been tasked with providing logistical support and preparing launch sites for expanded naval operations. These efforts are reportedly aimed at disrupting international navigation and escalating threats in the Red Sea. This development occurs amidst growing international concern over Iran's alleged use of the Houthi militia to open a new maritime front in the Red Sea, thereby jeopardizing global trade and further complicating the Yemeni crisis.
