The Historical Significance of Bab-el-Mandeb and Its Impact on Ottoman Control in the 17th Century

By the 17th century, the Ottoman Empire faced significant challenges in maintaining control over its territories, leading to a strategic withdrawal from Zeyla. This coastal town, along with its neighboring region of Tadjoura, came under the influence of the rulers of Mocha and Sana'a. The governance of Zeyla transitioned to an Emir, whose authority was largely symbolic and limited to the town itself, as noted by historian Mordechai Abir. The Emir's power was constrained, with real governance falling to a governor who relied on a small contingent of mercenaries and artillery to protect the area from nomadic incursions and banditry. Despite Tadjoura's claims of independence, it remained subordinate to Zeyla, committing to pay an annual annuity to the Imam of Sana'a, which was collected by the governor of Zeyla. The transition of power saw Mohammed Al-Barr succeeded by Sharmake Ali Salih as governor, marking a period of localized governance amidst the broader decline of Ottoman influence in the region. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #17thCentury #OttomanEmpire #Zeyla #Tadjoura #LocalGovernance