Special Correspondent, Dhaka:
The renewed Houthi offensive in Yemen is adding another layer of risk to an already volatile Middle East conflict, with the group’s advances along the Red Sea coast creating new pressure on Saudi Arabia, regional energy supplies, and global shipping.
Houthi forces have captured the strategic port of Mocha and other positions along Yemen’s western coast, bringing them closer to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major maritime chokepoint linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
The developments are particularly significant because Saudi Arabia is already facing disruption around the Strait of Hormuz. Riyadh has increasingly relied on its Red Sea infrastructure as an alternative route for energy exports, while attacks on Saudi-linked facilities and shipping have created additional pressure on its oil logistics.
The crisis also carries wider geopolitical implications. The Houthis are aligned with Iran, while the broader conflict has already drawn in the United States and affected relations among regional powers. Washington recently held talks with Houthi representatives in Oman, with the group reportedly assuring US officials that American and international shipping would not be targeted while maintaining threats against Saudi-linked vessels.
Saudi Arabia has, meanwhile, sought diplomatic options. Riyadh has reportedly proposed a two-week ceasefire through Oman, followed by talks addressing humanitarian demands and potentially broader political issues. The Houthis have sought a more comprehensive settlement involving Saudi Arabia’s role in Yemen. The proposal has not been officially confirmed by Riyadh, and the group has yet to accept it.
The risks increased further after Saudi Arabia reported a Houthi missile attempt against Riyadh on September 19, while the Houthis claimed attacks on sensitive Saudi targets.
At the same time, Turkey has said it is prepared to support Saudi Arabia under its new defense agreement with Pakistan, although Pakistan has indicated no immediate military response is planned.
The immediate challenge is therefore to prevent Yemen from becoming a wider front in the regional confrontation. Control of the Red Sea coastline, threats to energy infrastructure, and the involvement of additional regional powers could make de-escalation increasingly difficult if diplomatic efforts fail.
