Suez Canal could be closed by Houthi attacks and Western economy shattered as Yemeni militia enter Iran war with attack on Israel

Yemeni Militia Enters Iran War, Threatening Global Shipping Routes

Analysts warn that the Houthis, a Yemeni militia backed by Iran, could disrupt critical shipping lanes by targeting the Suez Canal. The group’s recent missile strike on Israel has raised fears of a broader regional escalation, potentially impacting global trade and economic stability.

Over the past week, more than two dozen U.S. troops were injured in Iranian attacks on a Saudi air base. A significant incident occurred on Friday at Prince Sultan air base, where 15 personnel were wounded. These strikes, which also targeted Iran, Lebanon, and Bahrain, highlight the intensifying conflict in the Middle East.

Israel’s military confirmed it successfully intercepted a missile launched by the Houthis toward Tel Aviv. This event has sparked concerns about the group’s ability to challenge maritime traffic, particularly through the Bab al-Mandab Strait—a strategic bottleneck linking to the Suez Canal.

“The Houthis possess considerable capability to disrupt global supply chains by closing the Suez Canal,” said Mohamad Elmasry, a professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies.

Should the rebels target vessels in the Red Sea or the Bab al-Mandab Strait, it could lead to the shutdown of a second major shipping route, adding to the already closed Strait of Hormuz. Such disruptions might hinder vessel insurance and trigger economic instability worldwide.

The Houthi group, which has long been supported by Iran, announced its involvement in the war between Tehran and the U.S.-Israel alliance. This move follows ongoing attacks on infrastructure in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestinian territories. The rebels declared their operations would continue until the “aggression” on all fronts is halted.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization reported nine paramedics killed in southern Lebanon today. This brings the total of health professionals casualties in March to an unspecified number, according to the organization’s director-general.

In western Iran, a “10,000 cubic metre” water facility in Haftkel was struck by U.S.-Israeli forces, according to the Iranian Fars News Agency. The deputy for security and law enforcement of the Khuzestan Governorate confirmed the attack, though no injuries were reported, and water services remain operational in the area.

Israeli military officials have threatened to increase strikes on the Islamic regime, while U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at deploying troops to the region. Iran warned such a move would result in substantial losses.

Additional reports indicate the Houthis launched a second missile at Israel, as noted by The Times of Israel and CNN. This attack underscores their growing role in the regional conflict and the potential for further disruptions in maritime routes.