Houthis declare naval blockade on Saudi Arabia amid U.S.-Iran strikes

In late July 2026, Yemen's Houthi forces declared a full naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, threatening to close the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait. The announcement came as the United States and Iran traded strikes, escalating the broader conflict in the region. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, said the blockade targets Saudi ports and oil routes in the Red Sea.