The continued advance of Houthi forces in Yemen is raising concerns over global oil supplies after the Iran-aligned group gained control of strategic areas along the Red Sea.
Their position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a major route for international shipping and oil exports, gives the group greater ability to disrupt vessels traveling through the region.
The development puts Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries under increasing pressure as tensions also affect the Strait of Hormuz, another crucial route for global energy supplies. With alternative oil routes facing threats, Gulf governments may be pushed toward negotiations with Iran to protect trade and maintain the flow of energy exports.
The situation could have consequences beyond the Middle East, as prolonged disruptions to major shipping and oil routes may push global energy prices higher.
For countries such as the Philippines, which relies heavily on imported fuel, further instability in the region could add pressure to domestic pump prices.
