Houthi forces seize Red Sea coast towns, displacing tens of thousands

Houthi rebel forces have taken control of Yemen's Red Sea coast, completing their advance on 11 September 2026. They captured the port city of Mocha, Perim Island, and the Hanish Islands, which are close to one of the world's busiest shipping routes. The advance happened faster than many expected.

Around 50,000 people have left their homes because of the fighting. The UN says 18,000 households have been displaced since early September. Whole villages were emptied during the advance.

People still in the area are struggling. Roads carrying food and supplies have been cut off, and phone networks are not working properly. Forces loyal to the Saudi-backed government say they are planning a counterattack.