TEHRAN – Web Desk: At least six Saudi-flagged oil tankers have rerouted their voyages around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope instead of transiting the Bab el-Mandeb strait, reportedly due to fears of potential attacks by Yemeni forces, according to Iran’s Fars news agency.
Citing satellite imagery and maritime movement records, Fars reported that the tankers altered their original shipping routes to avoid possible threats near the Bab el-Mandeb. The vessels had initially been heading through the strait before diverting to the longer route around the southern tip of Africa.
The report claims the change was prompted by concerns over possible attacks on commercial shipping by Yemeni forces. Saudi authorities and relevant shipping companies have not issued official statements regarding the rerouting.
Maritime analysts warn that if a significant number of commercial and oil tankers begin avoiding Bab el-Mandeb in favor of alternative routes, it could increase travel times, fuel costs, and global shipping expenses. The strait is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints, handling large volumes of oil and trade between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
