Yemen’s Houthis Renew Naval Blockade on Israeli Ships Following Gaza Aid Deadline

The Houthi-led government in Yemen has resumed a naval blockade on Israeli ships due to Israel’s continued blockade of aid to Gaza. The situation escalates tensions in the region as the Houthis declare intentions to target Israeli-linked vessels. The blockade has received backing from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, who view it as a means to pressure Israel.

On Tuesday, the military spokesperson for Yemen’s Houthi-led government, Brigadier General Yahya Saree, announced the renewal of a naval blockade on Israeli ships. This decision comes following the expiration of a deadline for Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, which has been severely affected by intensified blockades.

The naval blockade now encompasses Yemen’s waterways, including the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi had previously issued an ultimatum demanding that aid be permitted into Gaza, while Israel has maintained a strict blockade since March 2, leading to a catastrophic humanitarian situation.

Due to the expiration of the Houthi deadline and Israel’s continued blockade, the Houthis reaffirmed their military stance, declaring intentions to target Israeli-linked vessels. “Any Israeli ship attempting to break this blockade will be targeted in the declared operational area,” stated Saree, emphasizing the blockade’s persistence until humanitarian aid facilitates access to Gaza.

The Houthi campaign against vessels allegedly linked to Israel escalated following the October 7 assault on Gaza, resulting in attacks on numerous ships and a significant decline in merchant traffic through regional waterways. This escalation has profoundly impacted the Israeli port of Eilat and hindered traffic in the Suez Canal.

In response to Houthi actions, the United States, UK, and Israel have conducted missile strikes on Yemen, attempting to deter further aggression. Reports have indicated that the Israeli military remains on high alert for potential missile attacks from the Houthis, reflecting heightened tensions in the region.

The United States is actively coordinating with regional allies to address the risks posed by the Houthis to maritime navigation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss these growing threats and other matters, reiterating the urgency of safeguarding international commerce affected by Houthi operations.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad has expressed support for the Yemeni blockade, viewing it as a strategic measure to pressure Israel. Their statement commended the commitment of the Yemeni people to the Palestinian cause and called for unified support from Arab and Islamic nations to enhance resilience.

In summary, the Houthi-led government’s renewal of the naval blockade on Israeli ships underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. With their commitment to target Israeli-linked vessels, the Houthis aim to influence the accessibility of aid into Gaza while facing retaliatory actions from the United States and its allies. The situation calls for coordinated international efforts to ensure safety and security in vital maritime routes.

Original Source: www.dropsitenews.com