Warning from Tehran
Iran has issued a warning that it may move to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait if the United States and Israel intensify attacks, according to reports from Tehran.
Deadline and fears of escalation
US President Donald Trump had set a five-day deadline for peace talks with Iran, which is set to end today. Reports have suggested that after the deadline, the US could launch a ground assault on Kharg Island, a key hub for Iran’s oil exports.
Why Bab al-Mandab matters
Bab al-Mandab is considered the world’s second most critical oil-trade chokepoint after the Strait of Hormuz. Located between Yemen in Asia and Djibouti and Eritrea in Africa, the passage—near Saudi Arabia—handles about 10% of global oil tanker traffic.
Wider economic impact
The strait links the Red Sea with the Indian Ocean and onward to the Atlantic, making it vital for Asia–Europe trade. Iran has warned it could block or take control of the route if joint US–Israel ground or naval operations are launched against it.
Role of Houthis and market concerns
Reports say Iran could attempt to enforce the threat with support from Yemen-based Houthi militants, who have already carried out ship attacks in the Red Sea region. Economists warn that if Bab al-Mandab is shut while Hormuz is already closed, the global economy could face severe disruption, including higher oil prices, rising inflation and shipping firms being forced to seek alternate routes.
