Houthis Seize More Territory as War Turns Against America - Patrick Henningsen (Video)

In this 11 September 2026 published video, host Daniel Davis talks with Patrick Henningsen, an American writer, filmmaker, independent journalist, and global affairs analyst. He is best known as the founder and editor of the independent news and commentary website 21st Century Wire. His work primarily focuses on international relations, geopolitics, and media tracking, frequently offering critical analysis of Western foreign policy. His analysis frequently covers major geopolitical flashpoints, including the conflict in Ukraine and diplomatic and military escalations involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Yemen’s Houthi movement has seized control of the entire western Red Sea coast of Yemen, along with strategic islands like Perim (Mayyun) and Zuqar, effectively cementing their control over the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This major development, discussed by geopolitical analyst Patrick Henningsen, marks a critical turning point as the wider conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran escalates across the region. 

Following a rapid offensive that culminated in early September 2026, the Iran-backed Houthis pushed Saudi-backed government forces out of key territories. The Houthis captured the strategic port city of Mokha (Mocha). This caused immediate economic waves, pushing Brent crude oil prices past $105 a barrel. By capturing Perim Island, located directly inside the narrow choke point, the Houthis now possess unmatched leverage over the southern entry and exit point of the Red Sea. Houthi military spokespeople claim their forces cleared roughly 5,400 square kilometers and dismantled multiple opposing military brigades during the lightning push.  

The expansion of Houthi control has global implications due to the ongoing maritime and energy conflicts in the Middle East. With Iran already blockading the Strait of Hormuz, the Houthi takeover of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait leaves the U.S. and its allies facing severe constraints on two of the world’s most critical maritime energy corridors. The escalation introduces a massive security risk to international commerce linking Europe and Asia, following months of disrupted transit routes and a drastic drop in Suez Canal traffic. Geopolitical analysts like Patrick Henningsen point out that the U.S. and its partners face a challenging war of attrition. Depleted missile interceptor stockpiles and shifting administrative strategies have restricted Washington’s ability to maintain a dominant naval or defensive posture in the region. 

https://youtu.be/vKECXqHHMiE