Chokepoints explained
Bab el-Mandeb Strait
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
The strait lies between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and Djibouti and Eritrea in the Horn of Africa. Ships heading to or from the Suez Canal must pass through it, so trade between Asia and Europe depends on it staying open.
When ships are attacked here, carriers can divert around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding time, fuel and insurance costs to every voyage between Asia and Europe.
Countries around the Bab el-Mandeb: this week's threat scores
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to ship through the Red Sea?
Traffic is recovering as Suez Canal revenue rises, but Houthi threats around Bab el-Mandeb still deter some carriers. Check war risk insurance terms and routing advice before fixing a Red Sea voyage.
Why does Bab el-Mandeb matter for Suez Canal traffic?
Ships using the Suez Canal between Asia and Europe must pass Bab el-Mandeb at the southern end of the Red Sea. Disruption there diverts ships around the Cape of Good Hope, adding time and cost.
What is the Bab el-Mandeb Strait?
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
Why does the Bab el-Mandeb Strait matter for business?
When ships are attacked here, carriers can divert around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding time, fuel and insurance costs to every voyage between Asia and Europe.
Published by Zed Three. Last updated Nov 2, 2026.
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