Tehran orders Houthi forces to prepare attacks on Red Sea shipping if US strikes Iranian infrastructure, escalating oil chokepoint risks.
Iran has instructed Yemen’s Houthi rebels to disrupt Red Sea oil shipping if the US attacks Iranian power infrastructure. Missiles and drones are reportedly positioned near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, awaiting orders to strike vessels. The move expands Tehran’s leverage over global oil routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz, targeting a critical southern entry point to the Red Sea.
The threat follows rising tensions between Iran and Western powers, with prior warnings of potential disruptions in key maritime chokepoints. Analysts note the Red Sea route handles roughly 10% of global seaborne oil trade, making it a strategic target. No attacks have occurred yet, but preparations signal heightened risks for energy markets.
Markets have not yet reacted significantly, though oil futures could face upward pressure if tensions escalate further. The situation remains fluid, with no immediate confirmation of Houthi action.