Houthis claim major advance in Yemen as group reportedly seizes island in key shipping route

Fighters from the Iran-backed Houthi movement have "taken control" of a key island on the Red Sea, a government source says

Perim Island divides the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the southern gateway to a trade route that links Asia and Europe - here's why it is significant

In a statement, the Houthis say "maritime navigation is safe for all companies except for Saudi vessels" and claim their military operation has been a "success" - but they do not mention Perim Island