Bab el-Mandeb Strait Gains Global Attention Amid Iran’s Strategic Influence The Strait of Hormuz remains the world’s most critical oil artery, handling nearly a fifth of global crude trade. With Iran situated on its northern edge, the country holds unmatched geographic leverage. Any escalation in this region instantly disrupts global energy markets, solidifying Hormuz as the cornerstone of Iran’s strategic influence. Meanwhile, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Arabian Sea, is emerging as a second critical choke point. This narrow waterway serves as a vital corridor for ships heading to the Suez Canal, with a significant portion of global trade and oil shipments passing through it. Its strategic importance makes it one of the most sensitive maritime routes. Unlike Hormuz, Iran does not border the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. However, through its support for the Houthis in Yemen, Tehran exerts indirect pressure on the region. This proxy influence allows Iran to disrupt maritime traffic without direct confrontation, expanding its strategic reach beyond its immediate geography. The Red Sea has seen a rise in attacks and threats, increasing risks for commercial shipping. Tankers and cargo vessels now face delays, higher insurance costs, and challenges in rerouting. This instability underscores how fragile global trade routes have become amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Iran’s influence over both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait positions it across two critical choke points. This dual control creates a potential “double disruption” scenario, where energy flows and trade routes could be simultaneously affected. Such a situation would amplify global economic risks, as disruptions in either strait could have cascading effects.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #bab_el_mandeb_strait #suez_canal #houthi_movement
