The Houthis, backed by Iran, have increased their attacks on shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, prompting concerns about the waterway's security. The strait, located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, is a crucial route for energy and commercial shipping. On August 15, the Houthis attacked the Egyptian-owned cargo ship Tihamah, resulting in the deaths of four crew members, according to Yemeni and Pakistani officials. This incident marks the first fatalities in a Houthi strike on shipping since the U.S.-Iran conflict escalated in February 2023.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea to the Red Sea, and its security is complicated by Yemen's ongoing conflict. The Houthis control significant portions of northern Yemen, while various other factions, including the Saudi-backed government, control different regions. Amr Al Bidh, the Southern Transitional Council's foreign affairs chief, emphasized that naval forces can protect individual vessels but cannot eliminate the threat from Houthi-controlled areas.
U.N. Special Envoy Hans Grundberg warned that Yemen faces a serious risk of returning to large-scale conflict, with renewed Houthi attacks potentially drawing the country deeper into regional tensions. The Houthis have also declared a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia, threatening vessels that engage with Saudi ports. A White House official stated that the U.S. expects the Houthis to adhere to the ceasefire terms and is focused on protecting national security interests in the region.
The situation has led to a decline in tanker transits, with reports indicating a 40% decrease since the blockade announcement. China has sought assurances for safe passage for its vessels in light of the escalating tensions. The U.S. is working with regional partners to enhance security cooperation and protect shipping routes, while also aiming to disrupt Iranian support for the Houthis.