Rising tensions in the Red Sea: What is the impact on global trade and Arab countries?

At a time when political and military interests in the region are intertwined, the Red Sea has returned to the forefront of international events as one of the most prominent geopolitical theaters that directly affect the security of global trade and the stability of the countries bordering it, especially the Arab countries.

 The importance of the Red Sea to global trade

The Red Sea is a vital artery for international navigation, with more than 10 percent of the world's tradepassing through it, and it forms a vital part of the navigation route linking Europe and Asia. Oil and gas tankers and major commercial vessels pass through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world's most important sea lanes.

🔗 Learn about the importance of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait to global trade - Al Jazeera

 Mounting tensions: Where did the danger begin?

With the escalation of conflicts in the region, particularly in Yemen and the intensification of hostilities by the Iranian-backed Houthi group, security tensions have begun to have a direct impact on maritime navigation.

Tension highlights:

. Drone attacks target tankers and cargo ships.

. Military actions by Western powers to secure the corridors.

. Temporary closure or diversion of ships for fear of threats.

🔗 BBC - Red Sea Shipping Attacks Disrupt Global Trade

 How has global trade been affected?

According to economic reports, the disruption of ship traffic in the Red Sea has led to:

. Higher shipping costs of up to 50% for some goods.

. Effectively disrupting supply chains, especially in the manufacturing and retail sectors.

. Increased reliance on longer and more expensive routes such as the Cape of Good Hope.

Explanatory statement: Comparison of shipping costs via the Red Sea and the Cape of Good Hope route

What does this mean for Arab countries?

✅ Countries like Egypt:

. It relies on revenues from the Suez Canal, through which ships pass in the Red Sea.

. Any reduction in traffic means huge financial losses that could affect the national economy.

✅ Gulf States:

. It relies on the export of oil and gas through the Red Sea.

. Threats may force it to increase military spending or seek alternative routes.

Yemen and Sudan:

. Continued internal conflicts fuel instability in ports on the coast.

. They may miss out on significant opportunities to invest in maritime infrastructure.

The geopolitical dimension: The struggle for influence between major powers

The Red Sea is not only important for trade, but has also become an arena for a power struggle between international powers:

. The U.S. has deployed naval vessels to protect ships.

. China strengthens its maritime presence due to its huge commercial interests.

. Russia is coordinating with some countries to strengthen the military presence in the coasts.

🔗 Brookings Institute strategic analysis on competition in the Red Sea

 Are there any solutions in the offing?

 Strengthening Arab cooperation:

. Establishing an Arab maritime security alliance to protect corridors.

. Uniting efforts in regional organizations to ensure freedom of navigation.

 Alternative solutions:

. Developing roads and ports in countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

. Reduce reliance on vulnerable sea lanes.

 Conclusion

Escalating tensions in the Red Sea are not just a local or regional crisis, but a direct threat to global trade and the economies of the countries bordering this vital corridor. Amid the rapid changes, the need for strategic Arab coordination to secure interests and ensure stability in this sensitive corridor seems more urgent than ever.

"The Red Sea is the true test of Arab unity. Will we succeed in overcoming this crisis?"