Qatar warns that closing the Bab al-Mandab strait would be "catastrophic"

A spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday, “The world is suffering enough due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.” He added that the world cannot afford for the maritime route through the Bab al-Mandab to become impassable as well.

Last week, the Iran-backed Houthi militia advanced southward along Yemen’s coast and now controls the coastal cities of Al-Mukha, Zabid, and several islands in the Red Sea. From there, the militia has gained the ability to attack commercial ships more effectively than before.

The Bab al-Mandab, also known as the Gate of Tears, connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and lies on the shortest shipping route between Europe and Asia. Under normal circumstances, about 10% of global maritime trade and 30% of global container traffic pass through the strait.

Traffic through the strait has declined significantly since the militia began attacking ships in 2023. Many shipping companies have opted for the longer, costlier route around the Cape of Good Hope off the coast of South Africa.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, is attempting to ship some of its oil through the Red Sea, where it must be rerouted due to the blockade imposed on the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also discussed the matter with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during a visit to Cairo on Tuesday.

Egyptian sources said both leaders agreed that freedom of navigation must not be threatened. Like Saudi Arabia, Egypt has a long coastline along the Red Sea.