The Houthi blockade of Bab al-Mandeb is a reckless escalation that threatens global oil markets and international shipping at the worst possible moment. With over 7% of the world's oil supply already at risk, hitting Saudi tankers like the Encelia proves this isn't posturing — it's economic warfare against the entire world. A U.S.-led multinational coalition is the only credible answer to force these waterways back open.
The Houthi blockade is a direct consequence of Saudi Arabia bombing Sanaa airport and maintaining a years-long siege on Yemen — the Houthis are responding to real provocations, not acting in a vacuum. Iran's fingerprints are all over this, with IRGC elements flown into Yemen to expand pressure on global chokepoints. Letting this stand sets a catastrophic precedent: two critical waterways disrupted at once, with oil prices already spiking toward $90 a barrel.
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 7.4.1