Image for representation purposes only
Iran has warned that it could disrupt the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the United States takes military action against its territory, including Kharg Island.
Iranian sources linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said that if the US carries out any action on Iranian land or islands, or increases naval pressure in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Iran would respond by opening new fronts.
They said such a move would increase the cost for its opponents and would not benefit them.
The Bab al-Mandeb Strait, located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. It is one of the world’s key maritime routes and is about 20 miles wide at its narrowest point.
Around $1 trillion worth of goods passes through this route every year, and it handles nearly 12% of global seaborne oil trade. It is also an important link for ships moving toward the Suez Canal.
Iran has already been accused of tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply is transported.
Officials warned that if any attempt is made to counter Iran in Hormuz, it could create problems in other strategic waterways as well.
The situation is closely linked to Kharg Island, which lies about 16 miles off Iran’s coast. The island handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports and is a key source of revenue for the country.
Iranian officials have indicated that any move against the island would lead to retaliation.
The Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen could also play a role if tensions increase. The group is based near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and has previously carried out attacks on vessels in the Red Sea.
Since October 2023, the Houthis have targeted ships linked to Israel during the Gaza conflict, which led to a drop in traffic through the area.
Iranian media reports say the Houthis are prepared to support Iran if needed. According to these reports, the group could help take control of the strait or target vessels passing through it.
Iranian sources have also said they have both the ability and intent to create a serious threat in the area.
Any disruption in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait would affect shipments coming from major oil-producing countries such as Saudi Arabia.
With the Strait of Hormuz already under pressure, more cargo has been moving through the Red Sea, making this route even more important.
The United States is also increasing its military presence in the region.
Per reports, around 3,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division could be deployed, joining about 2,500 Marines already stationed on naval ships nearby.
The aim is to strengthen security and keep key shipping routes open, including the Strait of Hormuz.
At the same time, US leadership has not confirmed any immediate plans for ground operations in Iran or on Kharg Island, but has not ruled out the possibility either.
If the situation worsens, shipping companies may face higher insurance costs and may have to reroute vessels. Any disruption in both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb would affect global oil supply, trade flows, and shipping schedules.
References: ndtv, nypost
Iran has warned that it could disrupt the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the United States takes military action against its territory, including Kharg Island.
Iranian sources linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said that if the US carries out any action on Iranian land or islands, or increases naval pressure in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Iran would respond by opening new fronts.
They said such a move would increase the cost for its opponents and would not benefit them.
The Bab al-Mandeb Strait, located between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. It is one of the world’s key maritime routes and is about 20 miles wide at its narrowest point.
Around $1 trillion worth of goods passes through this route every year, and it handles nearly 12% of global seaborne oil trade. It is also an important link for ships moving toward the Suez Canal.
Iran has already been accused of tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply is transported.
Officials warned that if any attempt is made to counter Iran in Hormuz, it could create problems in other strategic waterways as well.
The situation is closely linked to Kharg Island, which lies about 16 miles off Iran’s coast. The island handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports and is a key source of revenue for the country.
Iranian officials have indicated that any move against the island would lead to…
Full report available at the source: