A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct as the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is a strategic maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. Statement 2 is incorrect because SLOCs are primary maritime trade routes used for commercial shipping, naval operations, and energy transportation, not submarine cables.