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 declared a blockade of Saudi Arabia by closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Saudi-linked ships. This action could spread the Iran war and disrupt global trade and oil shipments, as the strait is a key route connecting Europe and Asia.Key Facts
- The Houthi rebels say they closed the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to ships connected to Saudi Arabia.
- Bab el-Mandeb is a narrow sea passage between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Arabia.
- About 12% of the world’s trade and 25% of container traffic passes through this strait.
- The blockade is reportedly in response to Saudi actions against Yemen and an attack on Sanaa’s airport.
- The Houthis plan to use naval mines, drones, boats with explosives, and helicopters to enforce the blockade.
- This strait is especially important now because the nearby Strait of Hormuz has limited shipping during the Iran war.
- The Houthis do not control the coastline at the strait but hold territory nearby.
- Disruptions in both Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz could severely affect global shipping routes.
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