‘Gate of Tears’ at risk: Iran threatens major new global chokepoint if US moves on Hormuz

Fox News - World ConflictNews ReportEN 4 min read 100% complete April 13, 2026 at 02:24 AM

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How a US blockade on Iran has sanctioned ships turning around

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

A Middle East analyst warns that Iran may direct its Houthi allies to disrupt the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. blockades the Strait of Hormuz. The Bab al-Mandeb is a vital shipping route connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, carrying approximately 12% of global oil shipments. This warning follows a statement from a senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader, who indicated that Iran views the Bab al-Mandeb with the same strategic importance as the Strait of Hormuz. The potential disruption of the Bab al-Mandeb could further strain global energy markets. The U.S. Central Command announced a naval blockade of Iranian ports, prompting concerns about Iran's possible retaliation.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

U.S. Central Command stated a naval blockade would begin Monday.

factual — U.S. Central Command100% confidence

The unified command of the Resistance front views Bab al-Mandeb as it does Hormuz.

quote — Ali Akbar Velayati100% confidence

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait carries roughly 12% of global oil shipments.

factual — Fox News Digital90% confidence

The Houthis continue to pose a threat to U.S. assets, including commercial vessels, in this region.

factual — U.S. maritime advisory80% confidence

Iran could direct Houthi allies to disrupt the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. blockades the Strait of Hormuz.

prediction — Mona Yacoubian80% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gulf of Oman 30% Arabian Gulf 30% Red Sea 40% Gulf of Aden 40% Mona Yacoubian ×250% Ali Akbar Velayati 50% Donald Trump ×260% Houthis ×270% United States ×680% Bab al-Mandeb Strait ×780% Strait of Hormuz ×585% Iran ×890%

Keywords

strait of hormuz 100% bab al-mandeb 90% us naval blockade 80% iran 80% global energy markets 70% houthi 60% oil shipments 60% energy infrastructure 50% trade corridor 50% us-iran relations 40%