Houthis Threaten to Close Bab al-Mandeb Strait

Yemen's Houthi administration issued a warning that it could close the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if external interference obstructs peace processes in the region. The statement, posted on social media, emphasized that no force would be able to reopen the strait if Sana'a decides to shut it. This comes amid escalating tensions involving multiple maritime chokepoints.

The warning links the potential blockade to ongoing practices and policies that hinder peace, urging an end to such actions and respect for Yemeni rights.

the Strait The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, serving as a key passage for ships traveling to and from the Suez Canal.

At its narrowest, the strait measures 29 kilometers wide, with only two channels for traffic. It handles significant seaborne commodity shipments, including crude oil and refined fuels from the Gulf to Europe and Russian oil to Asia. Blocking the strait could disrupt global trade routes and oil shipments, affecting international shipping and energy markets.

in the Region Iran has reimposed a closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing U.

U.S. decisions on blockades of Iranian ports as a violation of a ceasefire. U.S. showed progress but left gaps on nuclear issues and the Hormuz closure.

" — Houthi Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein al-Ezzi, April 19, 2026 (Times of India) At least two vessels reported attacks while attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, prompting concern from shipping sources. Hundreds of vessels and about 20,000 seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf.

India summoned the Iranian ambassador in New Delhi to express deep concern over gunfire directed at two Indian-flagged ships.

government cautioned that attempts by proxy forces backed by foreign powers to control the Bab al-Mandeb would endanger international security.

Instability in the Red Sea would harm global trade and navigation, according to statements made at a diplomacy forum. The Houthis were accused of acting as a tool for Iran to threaten the strait. " — Yemen's Foreign Minister Shaya al-Zindani (Times of India) No specific timeline was provided for any potential closure of the Bab al-Mandeb.

U.S. President Donald Trump and the international community, calling for an immediate halt to obstructive policies.

U.S. national security aides gather at the White House ahead of a ceasefire expiration.

Trump noted very good conversations in talks but provided no further details. Iran's top negotiator stated that gaps remain in discussions over nuclear matters and the Hormuz situation. No date has been set for the next round of negotiations, with no signs of new talks recently.

The situation has heightened regional tensions, with warnings from Yemeni officials tying the potential Bab al-Mandeb action to interference in Yemen's peace efforts. The Tehran Times reported a Yemeni official's statement on blocking the strait if such interference continues.