As tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran, the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen have announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. This move threatens Saudi oil exports through the Red Sea, which have been redirected to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.
On July 20, the Houthis issued a statement declaring that the blockade against Saudi Arabia would take effect immediately. However, it remains unclear how the blockade will be implemented or whether Houthi forces will directly target Saudi vessels.
Yemen, controlled by the Houthis, is adjacent to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial gateway for maritime traffic. Disruptions in this area could impact Saudi Arabia's alternative oil export routes that have been used since the volume of oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz significantly decreased.
Saudi Arabia has been redirecting substantial oil shipments through land pipelines to the western port of Yanbu, exporting via the Red Sea. Recent figures indicate that oil shipments from Yanbu have averaged 4 million barrels per day, more than quadrupling from a year ago.
The volume of oil passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has also increased significantly, reaching 7.4 million barrels per day last month, accounting for about 7% of global oil production. Reuters reported that a complete closure of the strait could block a major Saudi oil export route, potentially reducing global oil supply by up to 7%.
There are suggestions that the Houthis' actions may be coordinated with Iran. According to multiple sources, Iran has reportedly asked the Houthis to prepare for a blockade of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in response to potential U.S. attacks on Iranian power facilities.
Meanwhile, efforts to mediate the conflict between the U.S. and Iran continue. A senior Iranian official stated that mediating countries have proposed a 10-day ceasefire to both sides. Iran has confirmed receiving proposals from several mediators and has reportedly requested Pakistan to resume its role in mediation.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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