Yemen War Causes Near Paralysis in Bab el-Mandeb
The movement of commercial shipping through the Bab al-Mandab Strait is approaching near-total halt due to escalating clashes along Yemen's western coast and the Houthi control over strategic areas near the strait, including the port of Moka, Zubayr, and Meyun Island. According to reports, the number of ships passing through within 24 hours on September 17 dropped to just four, compared to an average of 33 ships daily before the crisis—an 88% decrease. The strait is a vital artery for about 10% of global maritime trade and 12% of oil shipments, serving as a key link between the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean. This situation threatens the stability of supply chains and leads to increased shipping and insurance costs. Although activity has significantly declined, maritime navigation has not completely stopped, with shipping activity remaining approximately 70% below pre-crisis levels amidst international calls to enhance maritime security in the region.
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