https://sundayguardianlive.com/world/why-bab-el-mandeb-strait-matters-iran-threats-possible-blockage-of-worlds-4th-largest-oil-route-after-strait-of-hormuz-if-us-escalates-strikes-know-distance-length-width-who-controls-this-strait-179264/
Vessels continued to transit the Bab el-Mandeb Strait from Monday evening into Tuesday morning, according to MarineTraffic animations, despite a declared naval blockade by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi militia. The announcement, targeting Saudi Arabia, comes in retaliation for a Saudi siege and recent attacks on Sanaa International Airport. The Saudi-led coalition has vowed to respond with force, implementing protection measures for ships using the strait, a critical export route for Saudi oil following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran.
Market pricing suggests that the announcement has increased the perceived risk of successful Houthi attacks on shipping, with current pricing reflective of heightened tensions. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait remains open, although the uncertainty surrounding potential Houthi enforcement of the blockade continues to influence market dynamics. The Saudi-led coalition’s response further complicates the situation, potentially escalating regional tensions.
