Bab al-Mandeb Strait at Risk of Disruption amid Intensifying War

(MENAFN) The Bab al-Mandeb Strait is increasingly at risk of disruption amid the intensifying war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, heightening fears over global energy flows and international trade routes, as stated by reports.

This concern emerges at a time when global oil markets are already under pressure due to the effective shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, amplifying uncertainty across energy supply chains.

Positioned between Yemen and Djibouti, the Bab al-Mandeb serves as a vital maritime corridor linking the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea, providing the only direct sea passage between Asia and Europe through the Suez Canal. At its narrowest, the strait spans roughly 32 kilometers (17 nautical miles), making it particularly vulnerable to disruptions.

According to, an Iranian official issued a warning highlighting the potential escalation of maritime tensions:

"If the Americans want to think of a solution for the Strait of Hormuz with stupid measures, they should be careful not to add another strait to their problems and predicaments,"

adding that "the Bab al-Mandab Strait is considered one of the world’s strategic straits, and Iran has both the will and the ability to create a completely credible threat against it."

The waterway accounted for approximately 12% of global oil transport in early 2023, with shipments averaging around 4.2 million barrels per day in early 2025. Any interruption to traffic through this route could severely impact trade between Europe and Asia, forcing ships to reroute around Africa—an alternative that would significantly extend travel times and raise transportation costs.

Given its strategic significance, the strait has attracted a strong military presence from major powers, including the United States, France, and China, reflecting its central role in maintaining the stability of global commerce.

MENAFN30032026000045017281ID1110916959