Why is the Bab el-Mandeb Strait so important?

Iran-backed Houthis aim to control Yemen's Red Sea coast and Bab el-Mandeb strait. This strategic waterway connects Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal. Major shipping firms have rerouted vessels, increasing freight costs and journey times. Houthi control could grant Iran leverage in its conflict with the United States. Petroleum volumes transiting Bab el-Mandeb represent about seven percent of global oil output.