President Donald Trump said the U.S. would take care of things if Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis follow through on threats to impose a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia. His comments came after the Houthis announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia, only days after Saudi forces struck Sanaa International Airport.
Background
The Houthis have been backed by Iran and have launched missiles and drones at commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea, disrupting international shipping. The group has repeatedly threatened to disrupt shipping in the Red Sea, which could have significant implications for global energy exports.
The U.S. has been involved in efforts to secure the region and has backed Saudi Arabia’s military campaign against the Houthis. The latest escalation has fueled concerns that Washington could become increasingly involved in efforts to secure one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors.
Impact on Global Shipping
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, is one of the world’s busiest maritime choke points. Nearly 15% of global seaborne trade passes through the corridor each year, making it a critical route for commercial shipping and energy supplies moving between Asia and Europe.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
