Yemen: Yemen’s Houthis have announced the resumption of shipping attacks, warning that any Israeli vessel attempting to navigate the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Bab al-Mandeb Strait, or the Gulf of Aden will be targeted.
The declaration was made on March 12, 2025, following a four-day deadline set by the group for Israel to allow the resumption of aid deliveries into Gaza. The announcement originates from Yemen amid escalating tensions in the region.
The Houthis have reignited their maritime campaign, which had seen more than 100 attacks launched since November 2023 in solidarity with Palestinians during Israel’s military actions in Gaza. After a pause during a ceasefire declared in January, the group has resumed its drone and missile strikes, asserting that the renewed ban is a direct response to Israel blocking humanitarian aid to the beleaguered enclave.
The renewed attacks are aimed at pressuring Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza, following a period when humanitarian aid was completely halted on March 2. This strategy builds on a sustained campaign that has not only challenged global shipping routes, forcing vessels to detour around Africa instead of using the Suez Canal, but has also elevated the Houthis’ profile as a direct challenge to both Israeli and Western interests.
[SOURCE: AL JAZEERA}
