"The Houthi capture of strategic islands near Bab el-Mandeb is a game changer," says an analyst, adding that it gives the rebels "far greater geopolitical and geoeconomic leverage over Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, the United States and global trade".

Saudi Arabia and its neighbours are faced with a difficult choice: absorb mounting costs or seek accommodation with Tehran. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.