"In this phase, we will target any vessel linked to Israeli ports, regardless of the company or nation it belongs to, within our firing range," Houthi spokesperson Ameen Hayyan announced on 27/7.
Hayyan stated that any ship belonging to companies cooperating with Israeli ports, regardless of nationality or destination, could become a target if it fails to heed warnings while transiting waters near Yemen.
Previously, the Houthis only threatened ships directly linked to Israel through their managing companies or those that had visited Israeli ports.
The Houthis asserted that if countries wish to avoid this scenario, they should pressure Israel to cease operations in the Gaza Strip and lift the blockade on the territory.
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Houthi missiles at a parade in Sanaa, Yemen, in 9/2023. Photo: AFP |
Houthi missiles at a parade in Sanaa, Yemen, in 9/2023. Photo: AFP
The Houthi armed group has controlled Yemen's capital, Sanaa, since 2014, opposing the internationally recognized government. Since 11/2023, they have attacked over 100 vessels in the Red Sea to "show solidarity with the people of Gaza and oppose Israel."
The Houthis reached a ceasefire agreement with the US in May after weeks of intense US airstrikes.
However, the group only committed to not attacking US warships in the Red Sea, refusing to halt attacks on Israel and related cargo ships. Their latest statement suggests they might resume attacks on US vessels, nullifying the May ceasefire.
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Location of the Red Sea. Graphic: Wikimedia |
Location of the Red Sea. Graphic: Wikimedia
The Houthis often target ships transiting the Red Sea, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden. Approximately USD 1 trillion worth of global goods are transported through this region annually.
The Houthis have sunk 4 cargo ships, seized one, and caused the deaths of at least 8 sailors. In early July, they seized and sank two Liberian-flagged cargo ships, the Eternity C and Magic Seas, belonging to Greek companies.
The Israeli military retaliated with airstrikes on several Houthi-related targets in Yemen, including attacks on 7/7 targeting the port city of Hodeida and surrounding areas.
Thanh Danh (Reuters, Times of Israel, RT)
