Pakistan, Sept. 11 -- Iran-aligned Houthi forces have reportedly seized Yemen's port city of Mocha and advanced along the Red Sea coast. Military sources said the group also moved towards the strategic Hanish Islands. The developments could increase Houthi influence near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The waterway connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and remains vital for global trade.

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The Houthi advance has raised concerns about Saudi Arabia's oil exports through the Red Sea. Saudi Arabia has relied more heavily on the route since fighting effectively restricted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis said Red Sea navigation remained safe for most...