What happened
The Hindu's op-ed argues that the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb could again face threat from Houthi action, echoing the earlier Red Sea crisis. The author links the danger to India's trade interests because a major share of India's trade moves through this maritime corridor.
A Reuters report cited in the op-ed says Iran instructed the Houthis to close the strait if the United States attacks Iranian power plants. On that basis, the author warns that the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb corridor may again become a zone of disruption.
Background and earlier position
The Red Sea crisis in 2024 began after the Gaza war, when the Houthis attacked vessels linked to Israel. The United States and allies launched Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect freedom of navigation, and the UN Security Council Resolution 2722 was adopted on the issue.
Israel also conducted strikes and the Indian Navy rescued a tanker crew during the period of heightened insecurity. After a United States ceasefire was declared in May 2025, the Houthis were weakened, but shipping rerouting had already caused delays and economic losses for regional ports and trade.
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