Iran Orders Houthi Allies to Prepare Bab al-Mandeb Strait Blockade If US Attacks Power Sites

Iran has instructed its allied Houthi forces in Yemen to be ready to block the Bab al-Mandeb Strait at the entrance to the Red Sea if the United States attacks Iranian power stations and bridges, as threatened by President Donald Trump. Three sources told Reuters that the Houthis have completed preparations to attack ships and launch missiles and drones near the strait, awaiting orders to begin strikes. Representatives of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stationed in Yemen will decide if and when the Houthis initiate attacks on vessels.

Earlier, a spokesperson for Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya military command emphasized that Iran will under no circumstances allow the US, described as a foreign and non-regional power, to interfere in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "red line" for Iran. The spokesperson warned that any US attack on Iranian infrastructure would result in complete destruction of all regional infrastructure by Iran's powerful forces, leaving no trace behind. He described Iran's response as a "superior strike" far more severe and extensive than previous actions.

An Iranian military spokesman added that significant capabilities and resources remain undisclosed and that Iran's response to any hostile act will be proportionate and exceed enemy expectations, potentially opening new fronts of confrontation.