Houthis Threaten Red Sea Shipping, Global Oil Transit

The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, have attacked Israel and Red Sea shipping since 2023, citing support for Palestinians in Gaza. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree confirmed coordination with Iran's military operations against Israel, with attacks timed after Iran's strikes, according to pro-Houthi commentator Hussain Albukhaiti.

These attacks divert Israeli air defenses and previously injured six people at Ben Gurion airport in May. While a May 2025 agreement with the US halted mutual attacks, the Houthis never ceased targeting Israel and state they will cancel the US agreement if the US joins Israeli attacks against Iran.

Analysts Nicholas Brumfield and Hussain Albukhaiti warn the Houthis could deploy sea mines in the Red Sea, mirroring Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20 percent of global petroleum liquids. The conflict risks drawing in Gulf states like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with Houthis threatening US bases and critical infrastructure, despite Saudi Arabia's efforts to maintain stable relations.