Global protests against Trump as Houthis tighten grip on Red Sea shipping

Sep 12, 2026

Anti-Trump anger is spilling into the streets from Dublin to Seoul while the Houthis take more of the Red Sea coast — bad for oil shipping, Saudi Arabia, and Washington's standing abroad.

  • Tens of thousands marched in Ireland against Trump's visit, with anger aimed at his wars and at their own government for the warm welcome.
  • The Houthis now effectively control the Bab al-Mandab strait, sinking ships and trading strikes with Saudi Arabia, which is relying on air power alone.
  • Asian countries that buy their oil from the Middle East are watching closely, and there is strong resistance in South Korea to sending its navy into the region.
  • Trump says war with Iran is coming soon and repeats the claim Iran was two weeks from a nuclear weapon; Iran says it will not surrender.
  • His plan to hand $5,000 checks to Americans from tariff money is being called unaffordable even by Republicans, since the Supreme Court has struck down much of those tariffs.

Outlook: Expect the Red Sea to stay closed to normal traffic, more pressure on allies to join a fight they do not want, and the $5,000 checks to stall in Congress.

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