Houthi Rebels Seize Red Sea Islands as Saudi Arabia Launches Airstrikes

The Government of Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthi rebels have entered a severe military escalation characterized by large-scale airstrikes and the seizure of strategic maritime territory. Between September 14 and 16, 2026, Saudi forces launched over 50 airstrikes across Yemeni provinces, including Ta’izz and al-Jawf, while the Houthis launched ballistic missiles and drones at the cities of Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif. These attacks wounded 13 civilians and targeted the King Khalid Air Base.

In an unprecedented move, Saudi authorities issued emergency security alerts for the holy city of Mecca, as well as Jeddah and Taif, warning residents of potential aerial threats. Simultaneously, Houthi forces seized the port of Mocha and the strategic Greater and Lesser Hanish islands, gaining effective control over much of Yemen's western coast and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The rebels also claim to have shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet in Marib.

The conflict has severely disrupted global energy markets, with Brent crude prices exceeding $108 a barrel following an attack on the East-West Pipeline. While U.S. Energy Secretary Christopher Wright stated oil flow should resume within days, the instability has prompted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to seek military aid from the United States. President Donald Trump declined direct intervention, offering only intelligence support to avoid expanding the existing U.S.-Iran war. Human Rights Watch has characterized recent Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea as likely war crimes, citing the deaths of crew members aboard the vessel Tihama.