Iran leverages Houthi advance in Bab-el-Mandeb to expand influence

Iran is using the Houthi advance in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait to further its own strategic interests, according to SRF Middle East editor Thomas Gutersohn. The development signals a shift in regional power dynamics, with Iran gaining leverage over a critical maritime chokepoint. The full extent of Iran's involvement and the Houthis' operational goals remain uncertain.