Houthis Impose Naval Blockade on Saudi Arabia

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels declared a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia on Monday, escalating tensions in the region and raising concerns over global energy supplies. The Houthis announced the blockade in response to what they described as an 'unjust and oppressive siege' imposed by Saudi Arabia on Yemen, including restrictions on ports and airports. The move follows recent strikes on Sanaa International Airport, which the Houthis blamed on Saudi Arabia. The blockade targets the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical waterway for global shipping and oil exports. Saudi Arabia condemned the Houthi allegations and vowed to take 'all necessary measures' to protect its ships. The conflict has deepened Yemen's humanitarian crisis, with over 22 million people in need of aid, according to the UN. The Houthis have previously threatened to close the strait, which could disrupt 12% of global trade and exacerbate existing supply chain disruptions caused by the U.S.-Iran war. Analysts warn that even the threat of closure could disrupt shipping and create uncertainty for Saudi ports. The Houthis have also called for a 'general mobilization' in response to the blockade. The U.S. and UK have previously conducted airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The blockade comes amid heightened tensions in the region, including Iran's attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S.-led response.