The Geopolitical Dimension of Bab al-Mandab Strait: The Intersection of International Interests and its Repercussion Effects on Yemen

Abstract

The study is aimed at analyzing the importance of Bab el-Mandeb Strait for Yemen, the region, and the world, and examining the phenomenon of international conflict over it, identifying the countries that are in conflict over it and the mechanisms of conflict. It also focuses on providing a vision for how to deal with this situation, and how decision-makers can achieve their national interests and avoid any negative effects of the conflict. The research arrives at several conclusions, the most important of which is that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait holds significant military, economic, and political importance; therefore, international powers seek to control it. The naval military deployment and military bases in Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia are part of the international struggle for control over Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The study recommends that the internationally recognized government rebuilds its strategic plans and its internal and foreign public policies to gain political, economic, and military benefits from the international conflict over Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The government should enhance official diplomatic efforts to create international relations with all international parties, avoiding bias towards one side or another.