Yemen’s Iran aligned Houthi movement announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia, warning that vessels linked to Saudi ports could be targeted in a move that threatens shipping through the Bab al Mandeb Strait, the southern gateway to the Red Sea and one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
The Houthis said the blockade took effect immediately and described it as a response to what they called Saudi aggression against Yemen. The group said ships involved in loading or unloading cargo at Saudi ports could be considered legitimate targets if they ignored its warnings.
The announcement marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, opening a potential new front in the widening confrontation linked to the conflict between Iran and the United States. Maritime security analysts warned that any disruption in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait could affect global trade and energy markets, as the narrow waterway connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a critical route for oil and container shipments between Europe and Asia.
The Saudi led coalition condemned the declaration, warning that it would respond “firmly” to any threat against international shipping or regional security. Shipping companies and insurers have begun reassessing risks in the Red Sea, with war risk insurance premiums already rising following the Houthi announcement.
The blockade follows reports that Iran had urged the Houthis to be prepared to close the Bab al-Mandeb if the United States expanded strikes on Iranian infrastructure, although Tehran has not publicly confirmed issuing such instructions.
Diplomats and international organisations have called for restraint, warning that any sustained disruption to Red Sea shipping could have far reaching consequences for global supply chains, energy exports and regional stability.
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