Iran has raised concerns about the potential closure of another strait known as the “Gate of Tears” in response to the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, issued a warning that Tehran might block the Bab al-Mandeb, also named the Gate of Tears, which is infamous for its treacherous navigation. This strait serves as an entry point to the crucial Red Sea shipping route, facilitating approximately 15% of global maritime trade with around 21,340 vessels passing through in 2023.
The vulnerability of the Gate of Tears to attacks from Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, has been highlighted. Over the period from 2023 to 2025, more than 100 ships on the major oil shipping route were targeted by the rebel group. An adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader emphasized the strategic importance of Bab al-Mandeb, likening it to the significance of the Strait of Hormuz. He cautioned that any repeat of provocative actions by Washington could disrupt global energy and trade flows.
Ghalibaf previously questioned the extent of global shipments passing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, encompassing commodities like oil, gas, wheat, rice, and fertilizer. With a width of only 18 miles at its narrowest point, this strait represents a critical sea passage connecting Asia to the European market, offering significant time savings by avoiding circumnavigation of the African continent. Analysts have pointed out that the Houthi rebels, capable of collaboration with Iran, could potentially close Bab al-Mandeb in alignment with Iranian objectives.
Following a period of relative calm in the Iran conflict after a previous US bombing campaign, recent actions by Donald Trump to restrict traffic through the Strait of Hormuz have reignited tensions. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince has urged continued military pressure on Iran, citing it as an opportunity to reshape the Middle East and contain the perceived threat posed by Tehran.
Recent events have seen Iran exerting influence by effectively blocking the crucial Strait of Hormuz, leading to a surge in oil prices prompting intervention to reopen the waterway. The ongoing ceasefire negotiations between the US and Iran have faced challenges, with disagreements over key issues. Washington’s shift in war objectives from regime change to a more limited scope has complicated the diplomatic landscape, with criticism directed at Trump for his handling of the conflict and perceived alignment with Israeli interests.