The possibility of renewed disruption in the Red Sea has increased following the recent escalation between Iran and the US.

According to Reuters, Iran is "signalling it could play its most dangerous card yet: using Yemen's Houthi allies to shut the Bab el-Mandeb."

The news agency cites a senior Yemeni official, saying he warned that the country's armed forces were prepared to close the gateway ​to the Red Sea.

In addition, reports indicate that missile and drone systems have been deployed close to the waterway and remain on standby pending instructions to begin attacks on shipping.

Analysts believe Iran is expanding the scope of the conflict as US strikes inside the country intensify, and Houthi attacks increase.

They said Tehran is seeking to raise pressure on Washington by extending risks to trade and energy supplies beyond the Gulf.

Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz has been officially shut after incidents of attacks against multiple tankers in the area. 

Attacks also continue between Iran and the US, with the latter imposing a blockade against Iranian ports.