Maritime Security in Yemen
Şefika Sinem GÖNENDİ tarafındanMaritime Security in Yemen
The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a narrow waterway that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. Due to its critical geographic location, it is considered one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints. It serves as a mandatory transit route for vessels heading to the Suez Canal, with approximately 10% of global oil trade and a substantial portion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) passing through this strait.
Because of its immense strategic value, several major powers—including the United States, China, and France—maintain naval bases in the region. In addition, international organizations such as NATO and the European Union conduct regular naval patrols in the area to combat threats such as piracy.
In recent years, however, maritime security in Bab al-Mandab has been increasingly threatened by Houthi rebel activity. The Houthis have, in some cases, seized cargo vessels and redirected them toward Yemeni shores. As Houthi attacks escalated, several of the world’s leading container shipping companies chose to reroute their vessels to avoid passing through the Red Sea. These companies include:
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Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
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Maersk
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Hapag-Lloyd
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CMA CGM
Ongoing attacks, particularly those targeting vessels with ties to Israel, have forced many shipping companies to suspend operations in the Red Sea altogether. This has significantly raised global concerns over the safety of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, as disruptions in this critical trade corridor could have far-reaching economic consequences—including supply chain disruptions and a potential rise in global inflation.
If a ceasefire is not reached in Yemen, maritime navigation through Bab al-Mandab may become even more perilous. Such a development could trigger a global crisis, affecting trade, energy supply, and economic stability on a worldwide scale.
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Şefika Sinem GÖNENDİ
