Iran has reportedly instructed Yemen’s Houthi movement to remain prepared to disrupt shipping through the Red Sea if the United States launches attacks on Iran’s power infrastructure, according to several sources familiar with the discussions.
The reported move reflects growing tensions in the Middle East, where military exchanges between Washington and Tehran continue to raise fears of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt global trade and energy markets.
Houthis Said to Be on Standby
According to Reuters, Iranian officials have informed Houthi leaders to stay ready for possible operations around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime gateways linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
Sources familiar with the matter said the message was recently passed to the group as part of Iran’s contingency planning. However, they did not explain how the communication took place or whether it followed recent US warnings about striking Iranian infrastructure.
Neither Tehran nor the Houthis have officially confirmed the reported discussions.
Missiles and Drones Reportedly Positioned
A source close to the Houthi movement said the group has already positioned drones and missiles near strategic locations overlooking the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The source claimed the fighters are waiting for instructions before launching any operation and alleged that members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Yemen would oversee decisions on any future action.
These claims have not been independently verified.
Vital Shipping Route Under Threat
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a crucial shipping corridor used by commercial vessels transporting oil and other goods between Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Since tensions disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a larger share of Gulf oil exports has been redirected through Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea facilities. Any disruption at Bab el-Mandeb could place additional pressure on global energy supplies and increase shipping costs worldwide.
During previous Houthi attacks on commercial vessels, many international shipping companies rerouted cargo around southern Africa, resulting in longer delivery times and higher transportation expenses.
Energy Markets Watching Closely
Analysts say the possibility of renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping has added another layer of uncertainty to already volatile energy markets.
Any interruption to maritime traffic through both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could tighten global oil supplies and push crude prices even higher, affecting businesses and consumers worldwide.
Regional Tensions Continue to Escalate
The United States has long accused Iran of supplying weapons, funding and military training to the Houthis. Tehran has repeatedly denied those allegations.
With military tensions continuing to rise and diplomatic efforts showing little progress, governments and global markets remain on alert for any developments that could further destabilize one of the world’s most important energy-producing regions.
