Fighting along Yemen’s Red Sea coast has intensified around the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, raising renewed concerns for commercial vessels operating between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Yemen’s internationally recognized government said its forces had retaken the port of Mokha and advanced around the strait, while the Houthis disputed reports of government gains in the area.

Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani said government forces had secured effective control of Bab al-Mandeb, while another government source reported that fighting was continuing near a military installation. The Saudi-led coalition also said it was providing air support for ground forces operating around the strategic waterway.

The developments come amid continuing threats to merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a tanker south of Al Mukha, Yemen, observed multiple explosions in close proximity. UKMTO said the crew was safe, no environmental impact had been reported, and authorities were investigating the incident.

Bab al-Mandeb remains one of the world’s key maritime chokepoints, connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and routes toward the Arabian Sea. Continued fighting and reported attacks in the area have kept security concerns high for commercial shipping, with maritime authorities advising vessels to maintain heightened vigilance while transiting affected waters.