The armed wing of the Houthis stated that a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia had been declared with immediate effect, in line with the principle of “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.” The statement said that the decision was taken in response to what the group described as Saudi Arabia’s “unjust and oppressive blockade” imposed on Yemen.
If the Houthi threat is implemented, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait — a strategically critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serving as a major route for global trade — could be affected. A complete closure of the strait could halt Saudi Arabia’s oil exports to Asian markets and potentially reduce global oil supply by approximately 7%.
Coalition warns of “violation of international law”
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen stated that it would respond firmly to any threats targeting commercial vessels.
In a statement, the coalition said: “Such threats constitute a clear violation of international law and represent actions that fall under maritime piracy.”
The coalition also announced that protective measures had been implemented to ensure the security of vessels transiting through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Rising uncertainty for maritime transportation
Mohammed Albasha, a Yemen analyst and founder of Washington-based risk advisory firm Basha Report, said that the Houthi announcement could have significant implications for maritime transportation.
Albasha stated: “The key question now is whether they will begin targeting vessels heading to Saudi ports. At this stage, there is no clear answer.”
He added that even without direct attacks on vessels, the announcement itself could disrupt shipping operations and increase uncertainty surrounding Saudi ports. He emphasized that whether the Houthis escalate their threats into actual attacks will be a critical factor for regional trade flows.
The four-year truce has effectively ended
The Houthis recently accused Saudi Arabia of carrying out an airstrike on an airport under their control. Following the accusation, they effectively ended a nearly four-year ceasefire and launched missile attacks against Saudi Arabia.
The escalating tensions in the region, particularly following the Iran–Israel conflict, have intensified concerns over global energy supply chains. Developments along the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb shipping corridor are being closely monitored by international shipping companies, energy markets, and commodity industries.
Reuters
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