The Houthi capture of Yemen's Red Sea coastline has strengthened Iran's regional position and created new pressure on Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies by controlling a critical global shipping route, as of September 14, 2026. The group now opens a second strategic chokepoint for regional power plays.
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Houthis' Yemen advance leaves Gulf states with uncomfortable choice Reuters
ANKARA, Sept 13 - The Houthi capture of Yemen's Red Sea coastline is reshaping the balance of power in the Gulf, strengthening Iran's hand and confronting Saudi Arabia and its neighbours with a difficult choice: absorb mounting costs or seek accommodation with Tehran.
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By Samia Nakhoul ANKARA, Sept 13 (Reuters) - The Houthi capture of Yemen's Red Sea coastline is reshaping the balance of power in the Gulf, strengthening Iran's hand and confronting Saudi Arabia and its neighbours with a difficult choice: absorb mounting costs or seek accommodation with Tehran. By securing a position overlooking Bab el-Mandeb, one of the world's most important shipping arteries, t
"For Iran, this is a chess game. They plan what comes next. They don't push all their buttons at the same time out of panic," the regional official said.