# Iran-backed Houthis seize strategic Mayun Island: Can they hold it?

https://mins.news/en/item/55871

- Al Jazeera, 2026-09-12 13:45 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/9/12/iran-backed-houthis-seize-strategic-mayun-island-can-they-hold-it?traffic_source=rss

> Iran-backed Houthi forces have taken Mayun, or Perim, Island, strengthening their position on Yemen’s Red Sea coast and giving them a strategic foothold in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Analysts say consolidating control could reshape the Houthis’ fight against Saudi-backed forces and give Iran greater leverage, though holding the island long term may prove difficult.

## Stories

- [Houthi Saudi Red Sea Conflict](https://mins.news/en/topic/houthi-yemen-saudi-red-sea-conflict-2026-08) — Markdown: https://mins.news/en/topic/houthi-yemen-saudi-red-sea-conflict-2026-08.md

## Related coverage

- [Will the Houthi attacks activate the Mecca Pact?](https://mins.news/en/item/56034) — Al Jazeera, 2026-09-12
- [Houthi advance in Yemen puts U.S. in a new bind](https://mins.news/en/item/55841) — Reuters, 2026-09-12
- [Houthis seize Perim Island, tightening grip on Bab al-Mandab Strait](https://mins.news/en/item/57090) — CGTN, 2026-09-12
- [Yemen's Houthis reach strategic island at mouth of vital shipping lane](https://mins.news/en/video/55090) — France 24 English, 2026-09-11
