- Concerns have arisen that Iran could instruct its Houthi allies in Yemen to block the Bab al-Mandab strait, following threats to blockade the Strait of Hormuz.
- Both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab are critical chokepoints for global oil and gas shipments, with Hormuz typically handling 20% and Bab al-Mandab 12% of global oil.
- The entry of Houthi rebels into the Iran war and their attacks on shipping have already drastically reduced traffic through Bab al-Mandab, leading to increased insurance costs and rerouting of vessels.
- Experts warn that a closure of these vital waterways would severely impact global trade and energy supplies, potentially causing further economic chaos and driving up oil prices.
- Saudi Arabia relies on the Bab al-Mandab strait, particularly through its Yanbu port, to export significant volumes of crude oil, predominantly to Asian markets, making its disruption a major concern.
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