Somalia threatens Bab-el-Mandeb Strait closure

Somalia's ambassador to Ethiopia, Abdullahi Warfa, has issued a threat on social media platform X, stating that any country interfering in Somalia's internal affairs and threatening its territorial integrity could face consequences, including possible restrictions on access to the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Somali media link this warning to Israel's recognition of Somaliland's independence at the end of last year, implying potential US involvement due to its ties with Israel. The strait is a critical global trade route, with approximately 12% of global trade, 9% of maritime oil transport, and up to 30% of container cargo passing through it. A blockade would force ships traveling from Asia to Europe to take a longer route around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope, disrupting global supply chains.