The Yemen-based armed group vowed to target all commercial vessels connected to Israeli ports, regardless of their country of origin. This escalated approach is part of their broader campaign in support of Palestinians in Gaza, marking a significant expansion of their maritime operations.
The Houthis have been targeting ships in the Bab el Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime route linking the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, as part of their acts of solidarity with Palestinians. Military spokesman Ameen Hayyan announced this escalation in a televised address, describing it as a “new phase” of their campaign.
Hayyan emphasized that this phase includes targeting all ships belonging to any company that deals with the Israeli ports, regardless of the nationality of the company. He also urged countries to sever ties with Israel and pressure it to lift the “blockade” of Gaza.
According to Reuters, the Houthis have attacked more than 100 vessels in the Red Sea since November 2023, sinking four ships, seizing one, and killing at least eight sailors. Earlier this month, the group seized and sank the Liberian-flagged Greek-owned bulkers Eternity C and Magic Seas. The Houthis have also launched ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, most of which have been intercepted. In response, Israel has intensified airstrikes in Yemen, hitting Houthi-linked targets and port infrastructure, including a series of strikes on Monday.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz remarked that “Yemen will be treated like Tehran. The Houthis will pay heavy prices for firing missiles at the State of Israel.” In May, the Houthis reached an Omani-mediated ceasefire with the US, ending a series of strikes ordered by President Donald Trump.
This situation has significant financial implications for global trade and maritime security. The continuous attacks on shipping routes threaten the flow of goods and could lead to increased insurance costs and rerouting of vessels, affecting economies worldwide.