Iran has reportedly instructed Yemen’s Houthi movement to remain prepared to disrupt shipping through the Red Sea if the United States attacks Iran’s power infrastructure, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
The reported warning comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. Any escalation could affect global trade, shipping routes and energy markets.
Houthis Reportedly Put on Standby
According to Reuters, Iranian officials have told Houthi leaders to prepare for possible operations around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The strategic waterway connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as an important route for international commercial shipping.
Sources said the message formed part of Iran’s contingency planning. However, they did not disclose how the communication took place or whether it followed recent US warnings concerning Iranian infrastructure.
Neither Tehran nor the Houthis has officially confirmed the reported discussions.
Drones and Missiles Reportedly Positioned
A source close to the Houthi movement claimed that the group had positioned drones and missiles near strategic areas overlooking the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The source said fighters were awaiting instructions before taking any action. The source also alleged that members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Yemen could oversee decisions regarding future operations.
These claims have not been independently verified.
Bab el-Mandeb Remains a Vital Shipping Route
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait serves as a major maritime corridor for vessels carrying oil and other goods between Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Any renewed disruption could force shipping companies to take longer routes around Africa. Such diversions can increase fuel consumption, delivery times and transportation costs.
Previous Houthi attacks on commercial vessels prompted several international shipping companies to avoid the Red Sea and reroute cargo around the Cape of Good Hope.
Energy Markets Face Additional Risks
The possibility of renewed attacks has added uncertainty to already volatile energy markets.
A simultaneous disruption around the Bab el-Mandeb and Strait of Hormuz could create significant pressure on global oil supplies and shipping networks.
As a result, crude prices, insurance costs and freight rates could rise if commercial vessels face greater security risks.
Regional Tensions Continue to Rise
The United States has repeatedly accused Iran of providing weapons, funding and military support to the Houthis. Tehran has denied those allegations.
With tensions between Washington and Tehran remaining high, any Houthi action against commercial shipping could further widen the regional conflict.
For now, governments, shipping companies and energy markets are closely monitoring developments around the Red Sea and other major maritime chokepoints.
