Iran Takes Control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait

In recent days, Iran and the Houthis have taken control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait through extensive military operations. This strait is considered one of the key maritime points in the world and serves as an important conduit for trade between Europe and Asia.

Change in Control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait

The Houthis, after a week of offensives, have gained control of all the Red Sea coasts of Yemen and the Bab al-Mandab Strait by capturing the Prime Island and the Hanish Islands. They now dominate one of the key maritime points in the world, while Iran also controls the Strait of Hormuz. These two important points are the main routes for oil tankers and other commercial goods.

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Meanwhile, airstrikes from Iraqi territory targeted Saudi oil facilities, leading to the shutdown of the country's East-West pipeline. This pipeline was designed to reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, and its operations have now been halted due to these attacks.

Economic and Political Consequences

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a key route that accounts for about 10 percent of global trade and one-third of container traffic. Given the Houthis' control over this strait, the likelihood of reduced oil traffic from Saudi Arabia has significantly increased. This situation could lead to rising oil prices and economic problems in global markets.

Following these attacks, Saudi Arabia suspended its pipeline, with the oil company Aramco describing the action as precautionary and temporary. However, this could have serious economic consequences for the country and affect its export revenues.

Iran appears to be employing a long-term erosion strategy in this battle, aiming to increase the cost of war for its rivals. This indicates that Tehran is not seeking military victory but rather aims to exert pressure on its rivals' domestic policies to achieve its goals.

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