Houthis Blockade Bab Al-Mandeb, Threatening Global Oil Markets

The Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, a major global chokepoint between Yemen and Djibouti/Eritrea, has become another focal point of concern for energy specialists and oil traders.

Located at the entrance to the Red Sea, it's just 14 miles wide at its narrowest point, about 40% narrower than the Strait of Hormuz.

The Houthi Militia, backed by Iran, has announced a blockade of all Saudi ships after an attack on Sanaa airport on July 13th. The Houthis have successfully blocked the Red Sea in the past and stopped all traffic from Israel after the Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Pakistan's Prime Minister strongly condemned this action and warned against any attacks on Pakistan-flagged vessels, while the Pakistani government expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia during a telephonic conversation between Shehbaz Sharif and the Saudi Crown Prince Mohd. Bin Salman.