Houthis advance along Yemeni coast, threaten Saudi oil exports in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi rebels advanced along the country's coast, gaining control of the strategic port city of Mocha and moving towards the islands of Hanish in the Red Sea, according to military sources. This development threatens to disrupt oil exports through the vital Red Sea route, which Saudi Arabia heavily relies on. Yemeni government forces and their allies are relocating towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route, in an effort to maintain control.

The United Nations has expressed concern over the escalating conflict, with the UN special envoy for Yemen emphasizing the need for international action to address the "new and more dangerous phase" of the war. The United States, which has been at odds with Iran due to its support for the Houthis, has accused the rebels of acting as agents of Iran.

The Houthi advance has already led to a temporary halt in Red Sea navigation, with Saudi vessels being the exception. The escalation comes as tensions in the region remain high, with the US national average price of diesel surpassing $6 a gallon for the first time. Brent crude prices surged above $105 a barrel amid concerns over potential supply disruptions.