Houthis threaten closure of Bab el-Mandeb Strait as Iran deadline looms
Senior Houthi leader Mohammed Ali Al Houthi issued a warning on April 7 that the group would fully block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait if Gulf states join U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran. The threat targets the southern gateway of the Red Sea, a conduit for 10% of global oil. While the group has maintained a calibrated level of engagement, this escalation directly links the Red Sea maritime security to the outcome of the U.S. ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Timeline
- Record updated