Iran war: Chinese tanker passes Red Sea choke point despite Houthi blockade The news that Chinese tankers are being allowed to pass through the Bab al Mandab strait, despite the Houthi militia's blockade of shipping to Saudi Arabia, raises more questions than answers about the Yemen based group's strategy.
For years, the Houthis have used their control of key waterways as a bargaining chip in negotiations with rival factions and foreign powers.
The Houthi blockade is a direct response to the recent escalation of tensions between Yemen and its neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia.