Houthi control near Bab al-Mandab raises risk of transit fees on shipping

The Houthis' expanded control around Bab al-Mandab increases the threat to commercial shipping, potentially enabling them to impose transit fees and act as a de facto maritime toll authority. This would raise shipping costs and insurance premiums, compounding existing Red Sea disruptions. The claim is analytical and forward-looking, based on the group's demonstrated capability to interdict vessels.