Houthi Rebels Attack Yemen as Iran Blocks Hormuz

Iranian-backed Houthi rebels launched missile and drone attacks on Tuesday against government-controlled areas in Yemen, specifically targeting the province of Marib and the port city of Mokha. These strikes follow previous attacks in Hadramout and Mokha that resulted in dozens of casualties among troops and civilians, raising fears of a reignited civil war and further disruption to Red Sea shipping lanes.

Simultaneously, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed following Iranian retaliation for U.S. and Israeli attacks on February 28. Donald Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for past casualties and asserts that the U.S. Navy's blockade is effectively choking the Iranian economy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has conditioned the reopening of the waterway on the end of U.S. naval blockades and aggressive interventions.

International pressure has mounted to restore maritime access, with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calling for the unconditional opening of the strait to ensure safe navigation.