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A Houthi attack on a cargo ship in the Red Sea's Bab al-Mandeb strait has resulted in the deaths of six people, including three Pakistani nationals, marking the first fatalities in the region in over a year and drawing condemnation from Pakistan and international bodies.
Experts are assessing whether the Suez Canal can compensate for the closure of the Bab al-Mandeb strait by Houthis, which now puts approximately 6 million barrels of crude oil per day destined for Asia at risk.
A new report suggests that Iran's allies could target the Bab al-Mandeb strait in retaliation if the United States conducts strikes against Iranian power infrastructure.
Donald Trump has reiterated his threats to 'obliterate' Iran's Kharg Island and energy facilities, warning of massive damage without a quick deal, while the Pentagon reportedly prepares for a possible ground invasion or mass bombardment of Iran.
Tensions in the Red Sea have escalated with Houthi rebels claiming missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, some of which were intercepted by Greek Patriot systems. This comes as shipping in the region faces increased threats, with tankers altering courses to avoid Houthi-controlled chokepoints.
Houthi rebels are moving towards blocking the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb, a move that an Israeli expert warns could significantly harm Europe by impacting Suez Canal access. The rebels are believed to be acting in coordination with Iran.
Following the apparent end of negotiations between Iran and the U.S., there are concerns that Iran's allies could target the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait. This development signals a potential escalation of tensions in the region.
The pro-Iranian Houthi organization in Yemen has declared its readiness to strike the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait, also known as the 'Gate of Tears,' with the Suez Canal as a target, triggering a global energy alert, while Iran has also threatened to target this crucial shipping route if US forces land.
Global equities experienced a mixed day, with Brent crude oil prices dropping below US$97 a barrel after Houthi rebels announced they were not blocking traffic through the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
During a visit by the Lebanese president to the White House, Donald Trump addressed the Houthi naval blockade of Saudi Arabia, stating that the US would take action if the critical Bab al-Mandeb Strait were closed.
Senior Middle East advisor warns Iran could use Houthi proxies to blockade the Bab al-Mandeb strait if the U.S. blocks the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran is fortifying Kharg Island with missiles and air defenses in preparation for a possible US invasion, while analysts discuss potential US assault scenarios on the island and Tehran threatens to disrupt the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Reports indicate Iran is preparing mines, missiles, and traps to fend off a potential US invasion of the vital oil hub.