Yemen’s Houthi movement has warned shipowners that any vessel calling at Saudi Arabian ports could become a target, significantly expanding the group’s maritime threat in the Red Sea.
The warning was sent to shipowners by email and repeated in public statements by Houthi military spokesperson. Unlike previous threats targeting mainly Israeli-linked shipping, the new warning applies to all commercial vessels trading to or from Saudi ports, regardless of flag or ownership. The Houthis urged operators to avoid Saudi ports and warned that vessels ignoring the directive could face military action.
The move follows the group’s declaration of a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. The Houthis say the measure responds to restrictions on access to Sana’a and the continuing blockade of Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. Although the group has not yet issued detailed operational guidance, maritime security analysts consider the threat credible because of its previous attacks on merchant ships.
The warning could have a major impact on Saudi oil exports from Yanbu on the Red Sea. Since security deteriorated in the Strait of Hormuz, Yanbu has become a key export hub, receiving crude through the East-West Pipeline. Any disruption to shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could therefore affect one of Saudi Arabia’s main alternative export routes.
Saudi-led coalition forces say they have introduced additional measures to protect merchant shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Meanwhile, maritime security advisers are urging shipowners to review voyage risk assessments, remain in close contact with UKMTO and closely monitor the situation.
