The strategic strait under Houthi control: Israel's concern over the Red Sea blitz and the preparations on the ground
The Israeli security establishment is closely monitoring the Houthi takeover of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route for the global economy. The main concern is a simple maritime strangulation of the narrow passage, which could lead to a coalition led by Iran. In Israel, questions are being raised about how deterrence collapsed in the region, while the IDF prepares to defend maritime assets.
The Israeli security establishment is following with growing concern the Houthi takeover of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most important economic shipping routes. The takeover became possible after forces of the legitimate Yemeni government withdrew from the strategic island of Perim, located at the entrance to the strait. The strait's width at its narrowest point is only 18 km – three times smaller than the Strait of Hormuz, allowing effective blockade using simple means such as Kornet missiles and explosive boats, without the need for radar. The main concern is that control of the strait will allow the Houthis to precisely choose their targets and strangle the global shipping route. In Israel, there is sharp criticism of the collapse of deterrence in the region and questions about why there is no response from Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni government, and other parties. The fear is that a successful takeover will lead to a coalition led by Iran. US President Donald Trump has refrained from intervention, and according to a report in Axios, he rejected Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's request to attack the Houthis. The IDF is preparing to defend maritime assets, and the Navy chief has ordered the system to be readied and forces at sea to be thickened. The threat is perceived as the most significant, as 98% of Israel's imports arrive by sea.