Ankara: The Houthis have reportedly seized control of the strategically significant Perim Island located in the Bab el-Mandab Strait, along with the coastal city of Dhubab in Taiz province. As of 1030GMT, neither the Houthis nor the Yemeni government have officially commented on the takeover.

According to Anadolu Agency, the capture of Perim Island is a significant development due to its crucial location in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, where it divides the waterway into two channels. This move is likely to escalate regional and international concerns regarding maritime security and the movement of commercial vessels and energy tankers through the strait.

The agency also reported that the Houthis' control over Dhubab, which overlooks the Bab al-Mandab Strait, further consolidates their hold over this strategic waterway. The strait is a vital link between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, serving as one of the world's most important routes for international trade and energy shipments.

In a related development, the Houthis have seized the entire western province of Al-Hudaydah after advancing into towns like Hays and Al-Khawkhah. Their progress through the western Taiz province, capturing Red Sea coastal cities including Mokha, has extended their reach to the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Meanwhile, Yemeni government forces have withdrawn to the southwestern province of Lahij following the Houthi advances. Government troops have made some headway in the northern Al-Jawf province, moving closer to Al-Hazm, the provincial capital. Clashes continue on multiple fronts, including Marib, Al-Bayda, and Al-Dhale provinces.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen began when the Houthis seized the capital Sanaa and several provinces in September 2014. This prompted a Saudi-led Arab coalition to intervene in March 2015 in support of the internationally recognized government.