Policy Briefs
Expansion and Exposure: The Paradox of Houthi Control of Bab al-Mandeb
15 September 2026
Ansar Allah have succeeded in establishing control over the coastline from Hodeidah to Mayyun, positioning them to influence maritime traffic through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. However, this control also exposes them to attack and could prompt affected powers to form an alliance against them.
