Bab el-Mandeb Shipping Slumps Amid Houthi Attacks
Ship traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has plummeted to its lowest level in months due to Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities along the Red Sea coast. The attacks, which targeted key infrastructure, have led to a significant decrease in vessel movements through the strait.
The decline in ship traffic comes as tensions between the US and Iran appear to be easing. Despite this, US President Donald Trump has stated that he is prepared for 'strong' military action if diplomacy with Iran fails. When asked about the timeframe for negotiations, Trump said 'either it goes fast or not at all.'
Meanwhile, Iran's Ambassador to Russia condemned a Ukrainian attack on a ship in the Caspian Sea, labeling it a 'criminal act.' The incident has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.