Iran has instructed Yemen’s Houthi movement to close the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the United States launches attacks on Iran’s power infrastructure, according to sources cited by Reuters.

The sources said Tehran delivered the message to the Houthis as part of its contingency planning for a potential escalation with Washington. A source close to the group said Houthi forces have positioned missiles, drones, and other military assets near the strategic waterway and are awaiting further instructions.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. A significant share of global seaborne trade and oil shipments passes through the narrow passage, making any disruption a major risk to international supply chains and energy markets.

The reported directive comes as tensions between Iran and the United States remain elevated, raising concerns that any further military escalation could spill over into vital global maritime routes.