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

https://mins.news/en/video/56725

- Al Jazeera English, 2026-09-13 15:28 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAaC-OzrHlI

> The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a key maritime chokepoint connecting Asia and Europe via the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Houthi forces, also known as Ansar Allah, have taken strategic coastal positions including the port of Mocka and Mayun Island, giving them substantial leverage over the narrow passage. About 12% of international commerce passes through it, and disruption could force ships onto a much longer route.

## Stories

- [Houthi Saudi Red Sea Conflict](https://mins.news/en/topic/houthi-yemen-saudi-red-sea-conflict-2026-08) — Markdown: https://mins.news/en/topic/houthi-yemen-saudi-red-sea-conflict-2026-08.md

## Related coverage

- [Bab al-Mandeb Strait falls quiet as war disrupts vital shipping route](https://mins.news/en/video/60928) — Al Jazeera English, 2026-09-16
- [Houthis enter US ‘kill box’ after seizing Red Sea ‘cork,’ former Pentagon official warns](https://mins.news/en/item/56958) — Fox News, 2026-09-13
- [Red Sea nations watch as Houthis seize Bab al-Mandeb strait](https://mins.news/en/item/56704) — Al Jazeera, 2026-09-13
- [Yemen: Fighting escalates around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait](https://mins.news/en/item/56601) — France 24, 2026-09-13
- [Houthis seize key Yemeni island in Bab el-Mandeb, taking control of the strait](https://mins.news/en/item/55237) — euronews, 2026-09-11
- [How Houthi advance could hit global trade and oil prices](https://mins.news/en/item/54913) — BBC News, 2026-09-11
- [How precarious is security in Bab el-Mandeb?](https://mins.news/en/video/54452) — TRT World, 2026-09-11
