Lucknow, India

Why the Bab al-Mandab Strait is vital to global trade

Published 13 September 2026 · world

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, linking Asia and Europe through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, linking Asia and Europe through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. Presenter Dalya Al Masri explains how Houthi forces, also known as Ansar Allah, have seized key coastal positions including the port of Mocka and Mayun Island, giving them significant leverage over the narrow passage.

Around 12% of international commerce passes through the Bab al-Mandab. Any disruption could force ships to take a much longer route around Africa, increasing fuel

costs and transit times. With tensions also rising around the Strait of Hormuz, control of the Bab al-Mandab has become increasingly important to global shipping,

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