Iran warns it may close the Bab al-Mandab strait and entire Persian Gulf in response to U.S. military escalation.
Strategic Waterway at Risk
According to Tehran, Iran may close the entire Persian Gulf and the Bab al-Mandab strait in response to what they call the “strategic error” of escalating military campaigns against Iran, including potential attacks on new leader Modżtaba Chamenei. The Bab al-Mandab strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, forming a key link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean through the Suez Canal.
“Gate of Tears” Threat
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened not to allow “a single liter of oil” to pass through the Bab al-Mandab strait to ships associated with the United States, Israel, or their allies. Tankers will be treated as legitimate targets for attack. The IRGC has already demonstrated its resolve, with at least 13 ships in the Persian Gulf hit by Iranian missiles by March 13.
Regional Impact
Europe has been criticized for its slow response despite previous warnings. The Bab al-Mandab strait, approximately 50 km wide, is considered a second potential pressure point for Tehran alongside the already-closed Strait of Hormuz. Iranian influence is exercised through Huti allies in Yemen, allowing them to avoid direct military confrontation with the U.S. and Israel.
Preparations for Action
The semi-official Iranian news agency Fars warned that the Huti, who have not previously supported Iran, are being prepared for a key action. Yemeni rebel leader Abdul-Malik al-Huti confirmed these plans in a television speech, stating that “an attack on Iran is a war against Islam and Muslims” and that his group is “ready for all events in this battle.”
Economic Significance
Over 20,000 ships pass through Bab al-Mandab annually, carrying an average of 1.6 billion tons of cargo, including 6.2 million barrels of crude oil and refined petroleum products. This accounts for about 9% of all global maritime oil trade, making the strait vital to international commerce.
