20/07/2026 19:09 - Internacionales
On July 20, 2026, the Houthi rebels of Yemen, a militant group backed by Iran in the ongoing Yemeni civil war, announced the imposition of a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia. This measure is in response to recent attacks affecting Sanaa International Airport, opening a new front in the region's complex dynamics.
The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, declared that the blockade would be applied under an "eye for an eye" equation. However, the international community and active mediators are keeping the hope of a prompt peaceful agreement alive, seeking to prevent this situation from irreversibly affecting global trade.
The Strait of Bab el-Mandeb, a crucial maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and a gateway for global energy supplies, is under threat. Faced with the risk of closure, oil prices saw an initial surge, with Brent crude closing at USD 89.22 (up 1.3%) and WTI at USD 83.23 (up 0.9%).
Despite the uncertainty, analysts note that markets moderated their reaction amid expectations that Washington and Tehran might resume negotiations, showing initial confidence in diplomatic outlets.
Amidst the escalation, diplomacy continues to pave the way. US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, stated that his country "always remains open to a diplomatic solution." Meanwhile, the Iranian foreign ministry confirmed receiving proposals from mediators like Pakistan, Qatar, and Oman.
Among the initiatives, a proposal for a 10-day ceasefire stands out. This measure could revive previous agreements and bring the much-needed respite the region longs for.
The current tension involves the United States carrying out its 9th night of attacks against Iran. Unfortunately, there have been casualties: Tyler James Feehan (25) and Isabella Gonzales (19) were killed in Jordan, bringing the total US casualties to 17.
Furthermore, France reported the detention of 2 employees of its embassy in Tehran, adding another layer of international complexity to the crisis.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
