Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Houthis Close Bab al-Mandeb; US Strikes Iran for 11th Night

7/23/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces struck Iranian command centers, maritime sites and air-defense systems for the 11th consecutive night.
President Donald Trump warned the United States would act if the Houthis impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis announced they would close the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, forcing Saudi tankers to divert to the Suez Canal.

History

Historical Context

After the Houthi seizure of Sanaa in September 2014, Saudi Arabia and a nine-state Arab coalition began Operation Decisive Storm on 26 March 2015, bombing the capital and imposing a naval blockade. The campaign has destroyed more than 130 health facilities, and U.S. intelligence and logistical support continues to back coalition actions, including recent strikes on Iranian-linked sites in the Red Sea corridor.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces struck Iranian command centers, maritime sites and air-defense systems for the 11th consecutive night.
President Donald Trump warned the United States would act if the Houthis impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis announced they would close the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, forcing Saudi tankers to divert to the Suez Canal.

1 / 2