Bab el-Mandeb is a fishing village in Yemen that holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Despite its modest appearance, this area is crucial for global shipping and energy supplies.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Arabian Sea. It is a vital passageway for around 7% of the world’s energy supplies and 12% to 15% of global shipping. Recently, it has been embroiled in political conflicts between various factions in Yemen, including the Houthis and the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
The importance of Bab el-Mandeb is highlighted by resident Saleh, who notes how many ships pass by, suggesting potential wealth that hasn’t been capitalized.
In January, control of Bab el-Mandeb switched from the United Arab Emirates to Saudi Arabia. Later, the Houthis, backed by Iran, seized control of Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including Bab el-Mandeb. This gave them significant power over the strait.
The Houthis’ control over both the strait and Perim Island, located at the strait’s narrowest point, enables them to potentially disrupt shipping. A Houthi commander mentioned in a video that placing artillery on Perim’s coast could effectively threaten ships traversing the passage.
The disruption of this strait impacts the Suez Canal, necessitating alternate routes such as the lengthy circumnavigation of Africa, which increased shipping times and fuel costs. A notable example was the 2021 Suez Canal incident involving the Ever Given cargo ship.
Recent tensions have increased, with the Houthis using the strait to influence international politics, such as coercing Israel amid its actions in Gaza, leading to U.S. intervention. The conflict stems back to 2015 when the Saudis opposed Iranian influence near their border. Following attacks and blockades, a brief truce ended when Saudi strikes on Sanaa sparked further Houthi aggression.
Saudi Arabia attempted to counter the Houthi threat, including intercepting ballistic missiles, but the rebels maintained their control. Their strategies seem to avoid international military backlash.
Mohammad al-Basha, a risk adviser, suggests the Houthis want to prevent global panic by keeping conflict localized. Yet, Yemen’s government warns of broader risks to global commerce and navigation.
Yemeni government forces managed to regain some control, but challenges remain due to internal divisions and advanced Houthi military capabilities. The situation continues to evolve, grounded in the longstanding geopolitical tensions and strategic importance of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.