Iran: Preparations for closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait are complete

As claims that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could be closed during the political and military crisis between Iran and the US increase tensions, a notable statement has come from Iran.

Ali Khazrian, a member of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, made statements regarding recent developments in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Referring to the recent military preparations by the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen regarding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Khazrian said, "The Houthis have conducted exercises in recent days aimed at closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and all necessary preparations for the actual closure of the strait have been completed."

"There are two options for ships"

Evaluating international maritime traffic, Khazrian stated that there are two options for non-hostile ships, saying, "Ships will either have to bypass the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, bearing an additional cost of approximately 30 million dollars, or they will be able to obtain safe passage permission by paying 5 million dollars to the Yemeni forces."

Message of strategic dominance

Emphasizing that this step was brought to the agenda to manage transit costs in the region and ensure strategic dominance, Khazrian stated that this also carries a message of control over energy and trade routes in the region.

News Source: 12punto