Bab al-Mandab Strait

SEO Title: Bab al-Mandab Strait: Location, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Strategic Importance

Category: World Geography | International Relations | Maritime Security

UPSC Notes

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a strategically important maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.

Key Pointers

  • Located between:

    • Yemen in Asia

    • Djibouti and Eritrea in Africa

  • Connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.

  • Provides maritime access toward the:

    • Arabian Sea

    • Indian Ocean

  • Critical for global trade and energy transportation.

  • Ships passing through it can access the Suez Canal route.

  • Strategic importance derives from its position as a major maritime chokepoint.

Prelims Focus: Bab al-Mandab → Red Sea ↔ Gulf of Aden → Yemen/Djibouti/Eritrea → maritime chokepoint.