Updated

Iran-backed Houthi rebels have made major territorial gains in Yemen, seizing the strategic Red Sea port of Mokha and the island of Perim, tightening their grip on shipping lanes near the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. Analysts describe the advance as the Houthis' most significant military push in years, raising fears for global shipping and regional stability. New analysis suggests the Houthis' hold on Yemen's western coastline is far from secure, however, with geography, local resistance and fierce counterattacks from Yemeni government forces posing major obstacles to consolidating their gains. Experts caution that while the group has scored symbolic and strategic wins, sustaining control of the coast will require overcoming determined pushback and difficult terrain.