# Iran’s Houthi allies seize strategic island on vital oil route

https://mins.news/en/item/54524

- The Guardian, 2026-09-11 12:00 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/sep/11/iran-houthi-allies-capture-strategic-island-bab-al-mandab-strait

> Iran-aligned Houthi forces have captured a strategic volcanic island in the Bab al-Mandab strait after troops allied with Yemen’s UN-backed government withdrew. The takeover expands Houthi control of the vital waterway; Saudi Arabia has responded with air raids on Houthi positions in Mocha. More than 46,000 people have fled as fighting escalated.

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