Houthi Forces Join Iran Conflict Threatening Mandab Strait Second Largest Energy Chokepoint

Yemeni Rebels Enter War as Middle East Crisis Expands to Threaten Two Critical Shipping Routes\n\nHouthi forces have entered the Iran conflict, threatening the Mandab Strait — the world's second-largest energy chokepoint — as the Middle East crisis expands to potentially cripple global energy shipping.\n\n### The Escalation\n\n- Houthi forces joining Iran-aligned side in the conflict\n- Mandab Strait now under threat alongside Strait of Hormuz\n- Two largest global energy chokepoints simultaneously at risk\n- Could paralyze a significant portion of global oil trade\n\n### Strategic Significance\n\nThe Mandab Strait, located between Yemen and Djibouti, is the gateway to the Suez Canal and handles approximately 10% of global oil trade. Combined with the Strait of Hormuz (handling ~20% of global oil), the simultaneous threat to both waterways represents an unprecedented risk to global energy supplies.\n\n### Impact on Shipping\n\nFlexport CEO Ryan Petersen has warned that the Iran war is already throwing global shipping into chaos. The addition of Houthi forces and the Mandab Strait threat further complicates an already dire situation for maritime trade.\n\n### Market Reaction\n\nOil prices have surged as traders price in the risk of simultaneous disruption to both critical waterways. Goldman Sachs' hedge fund contacts reportedly view the prolonged conflict as increasingly bearish for global markets.\n\nSource: Wall Street CN