Yemen’s Houthis Resume Threats Against Israeli Shipping Amid Gaza Tensions
Yemen’s Houthis plan to resume attacks on Israeli ships, disrupting shipping routes after a calm period. They have linked their actions to support for Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. The U.S. has designated the group as a terrorist organization following its aggressive maritime strategy.
On Tuesday, Yemen’s Houthis announced their intention to resume attacks on Israeli vessels navigating the Red and Arabian Seas, as well as the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Gulf of Aden. This declaration follows a period of relative tranquility that began in January, coinciding with the ceasefire in Gaza.
Previously, the Houthis had conducted over 100 attacks against shipping from November 2023, claiming these actions were in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Their offensive included sinking two vessels and seizing another, resulting in the deaths of at least four seafarers and significant disruption to global shipping routes, compelling companies to alter their routes to avoid the Red Sea.
The Houthi leader issued a warning on Friday, threatening to resume naval operations targeting Israel unless the blockade on aid entering Gaza was lifted within four days. On March 2, Israel had blocked aid trucks, exacerbating tensions, with Hamas urging Egyptian and Qatari mediators to facilitate a resolution.
The Houthis stated in an email that their ban on shipping would commence immediately and persist until the crossings into the Gaza Strip were reopened, allowing humanitarian aid, food, and medical supplies to enter. Earlier this month, the U.S. State Department reaffirmed its designation of the Houthi movement as a “foreign terrorist organization,” a decision initially made by President Donald Trump in January 2023, primarily in response to the group’s aggressive activities against commercial shipping and U.S. warships in the region.
The Houthis’ announcement to resume attacks against Israeli ships marks a significant escalation in regional tensions that could threaten global shipping. Their previous offensive actions caused substantial disruptions and loss of life, while Israeli operations currently restrict essential aid to Gaza. The implication of U.S. designations could further complicate international responses to the Houthis’ increasing aggression.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae
