Bab el Mandeb strait identified as critical internet choke point

The Bab el Mandeb strait has emerged as a critical geopolitical 'choke point' due to its role in global internet connectivity. While much attention is paid to the transit of hydrocarbons through the Red Sea, 17 submarine cables in the region facilitate approximately 18% of global data traffic between Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Ansar Allah group (Hutíes) have increased the risk of regional internet disruption. In response to these security challenges, a new 'Defense Pact' has been formed in Mecca involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey.

Data from the route planner MAPPR identifies the Red Sea as the