Iran urges Yemen's Houthis to prepare for blockade of Bab el-Mandeb Strait
Iran has called on Yemen's Houthi militants to prepare to close the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait if the US strikes Iran's energy infrastructure. The US is continuing attacks on dozens of Iranian military sites.
According to Reuters, Iran has approached Yemen's Houthi rebel group, urging them to prepare for a blockade of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This strait is a crucial maritime route connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, and its closure could severely impact global shipping.
Iran wants the Houthis to shut the strait in case the United States launches strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure. Such an action would be a retaliatory move against US military operations in the region. Currently, the US is continuing attacks on dozens of Iranian military sites, escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, have previously attacked ships in the Red Sea, but a full blockade of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait would represent a significant escalation. This could disrupt oil and other goods transportation, affecting the world economy.
Relations between Iran and the US remain tense, and this news indicates a potential expansion of the conflict. It is still unclear whether the Houthis will comply with Iran's request, but the situation in the region is becoming increasingly unstable.
