Houthi forces seize Yemen highlands to cut Red Sea coast access as Trump cancels airstrikes

Houthi forces seized strategic highlands in Yemen today to cut Red Sea coast access from Saudi-backed forces, while President Trump reportedly canceled U.S. airstrikes against the group at the last minute. The Iran-backed advance has expanded the Middle East conflict and threatened global energy supplies. The Houthis, who control Yemen's capital since 2014, captured Red Sea coastal areas this month, routing Saudi-backed government forces. Trump spoke Sunday with Yemen's president but gave no immediate military commitment. Nearly 700 people have died and over 120,000 displaced in recent fighting. The Houthis aim to secure positions around the Bab al-Mandab strait, a key oil shipping route. Saudi Arabia has rerouted exports through the Strait of Hormuz, with diesel prices in the U.S. hitting record highs ahead of midterm elections.