Global energy concerns are raised by Iran’s threat of the closing of Bab Al Mandeb.

The Bab Al Mandeb strait, a crucial maritime route that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, might be closed by Iranian-aligned troops, increasing global energy risks, according to a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader.

Former Iranian foreign minister Ali Akbar Velayati stated that the “unified command of the Resistance front views Bab Al Mandeb as it does Hormuz,” alluding to Tehran’s successful shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, which passes through 20% of the world’s gas and oil during times of peace.

Situated between Yemen, Djibouti, and Eritrea, the Bab Al Mandeb is 29 km wide at its narrowest point and accounts for 10% of global trade and 5% of global oil shipments.

Since Iran blocked traffic through Hormuz, Saudi Arabia has increased the usage of the East-West Pipeline to transport crude to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, increasing its strategic significance.

The Houthis in Yemen, who are allied with Iran, virtually control the strait and have previously interfered with ships during regional crises.

Experts caution that even small-scale attacks on ships might stop transportation, exacerbating the current energy supply crisis brought on by the conflict between the United States and Iran.