Iran-backed Houthis have opened a new front in the Middle East war with a rapid offensive along Yemen’s southwestern coast and control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to the new report. The group and other Iranian allies have moved to disrupt oil shipments and attack Saudi Arabian exports, pushing oil prices higher and complicating the U.S. war with Iran. Italy is preparing for a possible naval mission to protect merchant shipping as security concerns rise around the strategic waterway. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said he and Italy’s chief of defence staff agreed to activate the navy and prepare whatever is necessary to ensure the safe passage of Italian vessels. He warned that delays in responding to maritime risks could affect the economy and consumers. Crosetto did not specify which measures or naval assets might be deployed. He also pointed to risks to undersea infrastructure, including data cables and energy links, and said protecting waters above and below the surface was essential to Italy’s security, prosperity and future.