Yemen’s Houthi rebels have escalated their campaign in the Red Sea by declaring that all vessels operated by companies engaging with Israeli ports are now considered legitimate targets.
In a televised statement aired on 27 July, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree announced the beginning of the group’s “fourth phase” of naval operations, broadening its threats beyond vessels with direct links to Israel, as reported by news agency Reuters.
The move comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and follows a series of high-profile attacks on commercial ships in the region.
Saree stated that ships operated by companies that “violate the ban on entering the ports of occupied Palestine” would be targeted, regardless of flag or nationality. He urged shipping firms to “avoid dealing with Israeli ports in order to preserve the safety of their ships, crews, and cargo”.
READ: Geopolitics at Sea: Navigating the New Normal
The warning follows the sinking of two bulk carriers in early July – the M/V Tutor and M/V Verbena – both targeted in the southern Red Sea. At least four crew members lost their lives, and several more remain unaccounted for, reportedly held by Houthi forces.
Video footage released by the group has shown some of the captured seafarers, prompting concern among maritime unions and governments. In response, Greece has deployed a salvage vessel to the area to assist with recovery operations and provide crew support.
The expansion of Houthi targeting criteria is expected to further impact global trade routes. Major container lines have already diverted vessels away from the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, opting instead for the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope.
Insurance premiums for transits through the region continue to rise, and shipping schedules have been widely disrupted.
International naval patrols remain active in the region under Operation Prosperity Guardian, though attacks have continued despite increased military presence.
