Warning follows disruption in Hormuz as tensions raise concerns over global energy transit.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Iran signaled it could target another major global shipping corridor, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, as tensions continue following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Bab al-Mandeb, which links the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, is a critical route for international trade and energy shipments. Any disruption to traffic through the strait would expand the impact of the conflict, which has already affected oil and fuel markets worldwide.
A source within Iran’s military told the state-run Tasnim News Agency that the waterway could become a target under certain conditions.
The source said action could be taken if the United States and Israel initiate a ground assault on Iranian territory or increase military operations in surrounding waters.
“The Bab al-Mandeb Strait is considered one of the world’s strategic straits, and Iran has both the will and the ability to create a completely credible threat against it,” the source said. “Therefore, if the Americans want to think of a solution for the Strait of Hormuz with stupid measures, they should be careful not to add another strait to their problems and predicaments.”
The source added, “If the enemy has doubts and lacks the wisdom to learn from its experiences, it can test us again, like [they did] in the Asaluyeh incident.”
The reference was to a prior Israeli strike on the South Pars Gas Field in Asaluyeh, after which Iran targeted a liquefied natural gas facility in Qatar.
The conflict began on Feb. 28 with U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian leadership and military infrastructure. Since then, Iran has taken steps that have significantly reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes.
President Donald Trump has warned of further escalation if shipping lanes are not restored. He previously said the United States could target Iranian energy infrastructure if access through Hormuz is not fully reopened. He later delayed potential strikes for several days, citing what he described as productive discussions.
Trump has also stated that the use of ground forces remains under consideration.
The Bab al-Mandeb lies roughly 1,200 miles southwest of the Strait of Hormuz and is considered vulnerable due to its proximity to Yemen, where Iranian-backed Houthi forces have previously carried out attacks on maritime targets.
The strait accounts for approximately 10% of global seaborne trade. In recent years, it has been the site of multiple security incidents, including attacks on vessels using missiles.
With traffic through Hormuz constrained, some shipping companies have considered alternative routes, including passage through the Bab al-Mandeb. The latest warning introduces additional uncertainty for maritime operations and global energy transport.
