Yemen’s Houthi rebels claim to have rerouted Saudi-linked ships, raising concerns over global oil supply disruptions.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels announced the closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Saudi-linked shipping, citing retaliation for a Saudi blockade and recent airstrikes. The group claims six ships were forced to reroute on Tuesday, though no independent confirmation exists.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical chokepoint, handling roughly 12% of global trade, including oil shipments. Some tankers paused near Yemeni waters on Tuesday, while the Houthis warned shipowners against docking at Saudi ports.
Oil markets reacted with modest gains, as West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 0.58% to $84.75. The threat adds to existing supply concerns amid broader Middle East tensions.