‘They called us’: Has Trump abandoned Bab al-Mandeb to the Houthis?
Summary
On September 12, 2026, President Donald Trump said the Houthi group, which controls a key shipping area at the Bab al-Mandeb strait, contacted the US asking to avoid conflict. Despite the Houthis’ recent military gains in Yemen, Trump indicated the US would not intervene militarily, focusing instead on threats from Iran and prioritizing the nearby Strait of Hormuz.Key Facts
- The Houthis took control of Dhubab, Perim Island, and the port of Mocha near Bab al-Mandeb, a crucial global shipping route.
- President Trump said the Houthis contacted the US to avoid fighting and were allowing most ships to pass.
- The Houthis announced a blockade on Saudi oil supplies to Asia and Saudi commercial shipping.
- The US is shifting its military focus away from Yemen’s conflict and prioritizing Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.
- Trump said the US has “tight control” over the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for oil shipments.
- Trump’s reluctance to engage militarily in Yemen partly relates to domestic political concerns ahead of congressional elections.
- Saudi officials denied reports that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged Trump to strike the Houthis and that Trump refused.
- The US continues a “security-for-oil” relationship with Gulf states but is reducing its direct military role in Yemen.
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