Red Sea port city of Mokha (Mocha)

Why in News?

The Houthi movement in Yemen has captured the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha (Mocha) from Saudi-backed government forces and has also been reported to have moved onto Perim Island in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The developments have heightened concerns over the security of a major maritime route linking the Indian Ocean, Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea.

About Mokha and Bab al-Mandab

Mokha is a strategically located port city on Yemen’s southern Red Sea coast. Its proximity to the Bab al-Mandab Strait gives it significance for maritime security and control of shipping routes.

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a major maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. It forms the southern gateway to the Red Sea and is part of the important shipping route connecting Asia and Europe through the Red Sea and Suez Canal.

Perim Island, located in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, has strategic importance because control of the island can provide a position close to maritime traffic passing through the chokepoint. The recent Houthi gains around Mokha and the Bab al-Mandab have therefore raised concerns about potential disruption to international shipping and energy flows.

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