Yemen and the Red Sea

Houthis take Mocha after Saudi-backed forces withdraw

This version is a correction.

ATTACK
Location
Mocha (Mokha), Yemen
Actors
Houthis · Yemen (internationally recognized government) · Saudi Arabia
Importance
Standard

On 10 September 2026 Houthi forces entered the Red Sea port of Mocha after Saudi- and UAE-backed units withdrew. Fighters were reported at the seaport beside an abandoned M-ATV and later on Mokha airport’s runway. Yemeni officials described the port as lost. This does not establish Houthi control of Bab el-Mandeb.

Verification: Probable

Evidence: Houthis take Mocha, Fighters at Mocha seaport after withdrawal, Yemeni officials on the loss of Mocha, Houthis seize Mokha in a coastal offensive, Houthi fighters on Mokha airport runway

Independent watchlist posts aligned on a withdrawal-and-entry at Mocha. No official Saudi or CENTCOM statement in this run. Not confirmed. Distinct from Zuqar and from control of the whole Bab el-Mandeb shore.