Senior Israeli official: Without an international coalition, the Houthis will cause anarchy

A senior Israeli official warns that without the establishment of an international coalition, the Houthi takeover of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait will lead to anarchy on a major shipping route. Israel assesses that there is no alternative to joint action, but at this stage it is refraining from direct intervention in the confrontation with Saudi Arabia.

A senior Israeli official told Kan News that if an international coalition against the Houthis is not established, "anarchy could erupt on one of the world's most critical shipping routes." The comments come against the backdrop of the Houthi rebels from Yemen taking over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait over the weekend. Hundreds of vessels pass through the strait daily on their way from Asia to Africa and the Middle East. The takeover allows the Houthis to block the strait using relatively simple means: Kornet missiles or explosive boats, without the need for radar or shore-to-sea missiles. Israel assesses that "there will be no choice but to establish an international coalition," but at this stage it tends not to intervene in the current conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, talks have begun with regional partners led by the US. The rebels exploited a lack of international attention to consolidate their hold on the area, under the guidance of Iran. Their takeover of the nearby port city of Al-Mukha is one of their greatest achievements in recent years.