Red Sea Strait Threatens Global Oil Shipments

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militia has seized ports and islands around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical Red Sea chokepoint, threatening oil shipments and posing a major risk to Saudi Arabia and global energy supplies. The Houthis claim attacks target only Saudi vessels, but safe passage for all ships is compromised. Disruption could force tankers via the Suez Canal, spiking oil prices and deepening global economic turmoil, with significant impact on Japan. A pipeline diverting oil to Yanbu was also attacked, likely by Iraqi Iran-aligned groups, potentially cutting 4% of world supply. Iran is suspected of orchestrating pressure on the U.S., prompting international calls for restraint.