Why the region must heed Qatar’s warning on Bab el-Mandab

Qatar has issued a dire warning that losing control of Bab el-Mandeb, the narrow strait linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, would have catastrophic global consequences. This warning comes as Houthi forces have taken full control of Yemen's Red Sea coast and have killed 63 people in a single day of fighting. The region cannot afford to lose yet another waterway to blockage, following the closure of Hormuz.

Qatar is working with regional and international partners to ensure freedom of navigation in these vital waterways. The rapid Houthi advance captured Mocha, seized the remaining coastline, Perim Island, and the Hanish archipelago, leaving them in control of Yemen's entire Red Sea coast. The displacement of over 100,000 Yemenis has already occurred, with many crossing the strait in small boats.

The energy market is already feeling the impact, with crude prices hovering above $100 a barrel and the US retail diesel price setting a record just below $6.40 a gallon. The US Navy is currently escorting ships through Hormuz while blockading Iranian ports, a move that Iran sees as a violation of the 2025 ceasefire agreement. US officials met with Houthi representatives at the American embassy in Muscat, aiming to keep the strait open without drawing the US into the conflict.

Qatar has condemned the attacks as an act of aggression against Saudi sovereignty and called for the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions 2216 and 2722. The strategic importance of Bab el-Mandeb has led to the formation of a Saudi-led multinational defensive maritime alliance, but the alliance has yet to begin operations.

Qatar has expressed concern over the situation and is pushing for a post-war plan to secure the region.