Amid ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has signalled expanding focus to another key global shipping route, the Bab el-Mandeb or Bab al-Mandab strait, heightening concerns over supply chains and energy flows.

The remarks by Iranian Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf come as maritime traffic through Hormuz remains halted since the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Iran sparked a war, contributing to tighter global markets.

“What share of global oil, LNG, wheat, rice, and fertilizer shipments transits the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait? Which countries and companies account for the highest transit volumes through the strait?”

His comments follow Iran’s continued exertion of control over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil corridors, increasing pressure on international shipping and driving up costs.

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The Houthis of Yemen, part of the so-called pro-Iran Axis of Resistance, recently threatened of disrupt shipping through Bab el-Mandeb.

Since the Israeli war on Gaza began in October 2023, Houthi forces have intermittently targeted commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, using missiles, drones, and explosive boats. They have said these attacks are aimed at ships linked to Israel.

Analysts have warned that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could emerge as a new flashpoint in the US-Iran conflict, particularly after the Houthis’ March 28 missile launch towards Israel, their first such action since the current escalation with Iran began.

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Yemen’s strategic position along the strait has already made it a focal point in past disruptions. Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea caused significant disruption through late 2023 and 2024.

While there is no formal blockade by the Houthis at present, any disruption at this second major chokepoint could have wide-ranging economic consequences.