A new threat by Yemen’s Houthis could widen the Iran war and put another trade chokepoint at risk
Summary
Yemen’s Houthi rebels have threatened to block shipping tied to Saudi Arabia in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key global trade route. This move could widen the conflict involving Iran and further disrupt oil exports and international trade.Key Facts
- The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and is crucial for global trade.
- About 12% of the world’s trade and 25% of container shipping pass through this narrow waterway.
- Houthis, supported by Iran, say they have closed the strait to Saudi-linked shipping in retaliation for Saudi actions in Yemen.
- They reportedly attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, causing fires but no casualties.
- Houthis plan to use mines, explosive boats, drones, and helicopters to block ships that ignore warnings.
- The Houthis do not control the coast at the strait but are close enough to disrupt shipping.
- Similar actions during earlier conflicts have shown how such attacks can effectively close important waterways.
- This threatens global oil supplies, especially since the Strait of Hormuz, another key route, is already disrupted by conflict.
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