Oil shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait rose to 7.4 million barrels per day in June, compared with 4.2 million barrels per day during the same period last year, according to data from Kpler.

The increase comes amid concerns over potential disruptions following reports that the Houthis are preparing to close the strait if Iranian energy facilities are targeted in U.S. attacks.

Experts warn that any simultaneous disruption in Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz would severely affect global supply chains and energy prices.