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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Omar Faruk

Somalis rethink trade routes as Houthis disrupt established shipping channels

Somalia Mideast Crisis - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Somalia's business community is seeking alternative shipping routes due to disruptions and security concerns around the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Strait of Hormuz after Iran-backed Houthis captured a key port city and an island, sending thousands of Yemenis fleeing to neighboring Djibouti.

Companies have traditionally imported goods from Asia through Gulf countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. Now, some are trying a more direct approach.

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