The United Nations Security Council is set to convene an emergency meeting to discuss growing security concerns around the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait amid renewed tensions linked to the conflict in Yemen.
The meeting was requested by Bahrain, Denmark, France, Greece, Latvia and the United Kingdom, according to the British mission to the United Nations.
The session is scheduled for 3 p.m. local time in New York (1900 GMT), with representatives from Yemen and Saudi Arabia expected to participate alongside the 15 members of the Security Council.
Concerns Over Houthi Movement Near Maritime Route
The emergency discussions follow reports of further advances by Iran-aligned Houthi forces towards the Bab al-Mandab waterway.
The development has increased concerns that the group could gain closer access to one of the world’s most important maritime passages and potentially expand threats against commercial shipping.
The Houthis began attacking vessels linked to international shipping routes in 2023, citing their opposition to Israel’s war in Gaza and regional developments.
Houthis’ Position on Shipping Access
The Houthi movement has said it supports the continuation of safe navigation through the strait but has maintained restrictions against Saudi-linked vessels.
The group has described its actions against Saudi Arabia as part of what it calls a blockade.
Saudi Arabia has been involved in Yemen’s conflict for more than a decade, supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government through a military coalition against the Houthis.
Strategic Importance of Bab al-Mandab
The Bab al-Mandab Strait is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.
The narrow waterway connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a major route for global trade between Europe and Asia.
Ships travelling between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean commonly pass through the route via the Suez Canal, making any disruption a potential threat to international supply chains and energy markets.
