Alexandra Gaspar was diving in the Red Sea in 2004 when she and others were swept away by a powerful current — the start of what would become a 13-hour fight for survival.

Red Sea disruptions impact Egypt’s economy, with Suez Canal revenues dropping by $7bn in two years.

Saudi Arabia has largely been on its own in confronting the Iranian-backed rebels, who rapidly captured more territory in Yemen over the past week and strengthened their ability to choke off Saudi oil exports out of the Red Sea.

Iran-backed rebels in Yemen captured the strategic Perim Island in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait on Friday, two Yemeni government sources told CNN, potentially expanding Tehran’s influence over another key global shipping route.

Iran-aligned Houthis have seized key positions along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, raising fresh concerns over shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The Iran-backed Houthi rebel group has taken control of Yemen's strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha. Houthi and Yemeni officials confirmed the takeover.

The Houthis have recently gained territory along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, raising concerns about maritime security and the stability of oil exports

Riyadh vows firm action after repeated Houthi missile, drone attacks.Houthis seize Yemen's Red Sea coast and Bab el-Mandeb last week.Saudi-led coalition says Houthi attacks wounded 13 in three