Yemen war: Battle for Bab al-Mandab threatens global oil supplies

Yemeni government forces face a critical juncture as Ansarullah Houthi advancements threaten the strategic oil and gas hubs of Marib and Taiz. Control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait provides the Houthis significant leverage, potentially disrupting 10-12% of global shipping trade. Former CIA officer Scott Uehlinger notes that while the U.S. faces pressure to assist Saudi Arabia, military intervention risks straining naval resources already committed to Pacific security. Simultaneously, the recent attack on Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline has removed 4% of global oil supply from the market, driving prices toward $120 per barrel. Energy analyst Johannes Benigni highlights that with limited oil inventories, Saudi Arabia is under intense pressure to reach a diplomatic settlement with regional adversaries to secure its energy infrastructure and stabilize volatile global markets.