Houthis escalate fighting in Yemen, eyeing control over Mocha Port, Bab al-Mandab Strait - report

Fighting has intensified around the western region of Taiz in Yemen as Houthi forces attempt to advance toward the port city of Mocha. According to statements given by Col. Abdul Basit al-Baher, the escalation is part of a Houthi effort to gain control over Mocha Port and the strategically vital Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Mocha is located less than 50 miles away from the Bab al-Mandab Strait, making the ongoing clashes a significant development regarding control over critical maritime choke points in the region.