Pakistan, Sept. 12 -- Iran-backed Houthi fighters have seized Yemen's entire Red Sea coast and three strategic islands. The advance strengthens their position near the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The group captured the Yemeni side of the waterway after a week-long offensive. Government officials said hundreds of people died during the fighting. The Houthis also captured Mayyun Island in the middle of the strait. They later seized Greater and Lesser Hanish islands. A local official said government forces lost all positions along the western coast. Witnesses reported Houthi fighters deploying along the Bab al-Mandab shore.

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The latest gains could further disrupt global trade through a vital ...