Houthi-Saudi Conflict Near Africa

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which Yemeni forces aim to reclaim from Houthis, is close to Djibouti and Ethiopia.

Houthis Capture Perim Island

In September, Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized Yemen's Perim Island, the narrowest point of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Perim Island's Strategic Position

Perim Island is 20 kilometers from Djibouti and 20 minutes by air from Ethiopia.

Refugee Crisis in Djibouti

At least 3,700 refugees crossed from Yemen to Djibouti since September 10, mostly women and children.

Djibouti's Water Crisis

Djibouti has no groundwater; all water must be desalinated due to extreme dryness.

“We don't have much water here; there's no groundwater at all”

Djibouti's Military Significance

Djibouti hosts military bases from the US, China, France, Italy, Japan, and Germany until 2021.

Shipping Route Disruptions

Ships now pay nearly double for insurance due to war risks, reducing Red Sea traffic.

Ethiopia's Trade Vulnerability

Ethiopia relies on Djibouti for 95% of its imports and exports, facing fuel shortages.

Ethiopia's Tigray Conflict

Ethiopia's northern Tigray region saw fighting that threatened trade routes to Djibouti.

Potential Regional Escalation

Ethiopia and Eritrea have severed diplomatic ties, risking wider regional conflict.

Strait of Hormuz Impact

Africa faces fuel and fertilizer shortages due to the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

Refugee Assistance Needs

UNHCR prepares to assist another 10,000 people who have not yet crossed into Djibouti.