Houthis Block Red Sea Oil Route, Saudi Arabia Seeks New Partners

Houthi militants from Yemen have expanded their campaign against global shipping, now threatening the Bab al-Mandab strait in the Red Sea — following their earlier operations targeting the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf. Together, these two chokepoints control much of Saudi Arabia's oil export capacity.

With both strategic sea routes under threat, Saudi Arabia is actively seeking new security partnerships and allies beyond its traditional relationship with Washington. Riyadh's growing concern reflects the vulnerability of its critical export infrastructure to Houthi attacks.

A Dual Maritime Blockade

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and carries roughly 20% of global oil trade. The Bab al-Mandab strait, linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, is the main passage for oil heading to European markets.

Houthi attacks on commercial shipping began in late 2023 in response to the conflict in Gaza and have since forced many shipping companies to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant cost and transit time.

Saudi Arabia Looks for New Alliances

The crisis highlights a broader shift in the Middle East. With US security commitments uncertain and Houthi attacks continuing despite coalition operations, Gulf states are diversifying their security and economic partnerships with Asian powers and European allies.