Egypt at risk? Houthis expand Red Sea control
Part of composite article Iran Shuts Hormuz and Houthis Choke Bab al-Mandab: 147,000 Flee Yemen in 18 Days as Two Oil Routes Close View full article →
The Houthis, a Yemeni rebel group, are expanding their control over maritime corridors in the Red Sea. Their stated target is Saudi Arabia, their long-time enemy. But these military moves also put Egypt at risk.
The Red Sea routes are vital to Egypt. Shipping through the Suez Canal, which connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, is a major source of income for the country. If the Houthis threaten these waters, Egypt's economy could suffer.
The Houthis have not directly named Egypt as a target. However, their growing presence in the Red Sea adds pressure on Cairo, which must now watch a conflict that is moving closer to its shores.