UKMTO Warns of Elevated Risk in Bab-el-Mandeb as Houthis Expand Territorial Control

UKMTO issued a warning on September 18, 2026, that commercial vessels face significant risk transiting the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, citing Houthi territorial gains in Yemen. The warning signals a potential escalation in threats to shipping, though specific incidents are not detailed. This continues an established pattern of Houthi maritime harassment, but the explicit territorial expansion reference marks a notable shift in the threat landscape.