Yemen’s Houthis Threaten to Resume Attacks on Israeli Ships Following Aid Deadline Expiration

Yemen’s Houthis have vowed to resume attacks on Israeli vessels following a lapsed deadline for humanitarian aid to Gaza. Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi announced readiness to act if aid does not flow into Gaza, reiterating that any Israeli ships breaching a ban will be targeted. The backdrop includes ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza and international legal cases against Israeli officials for war crimes and genocide.

The Houthi group in Yemen has announced its intention to resume blocking the passage of all Israeli vessels in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Bab al-Mandab Strait following the expiration of a four-day deadline for Israel to permit humanitarian aid into Gaza. This decision was communicated through a televised address by Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, who expressed the group’s readiness to strike Israeli ships if aid was not delivered.

Earlier, the Houthis convened a meeting in Sanaa to discuss the ultimatum issued to Israel. They emphasized their commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause, signaling a unified front across government sectors in anticipation of potential developments. Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi reiterated that his forces were prepared to act against Israel after the deadline had lapsed.

“Following the end of the deadline set by Commander Abdul Malik al-Houthi… the Yemeni Armed Forces confirm the resumption of a ban on all Israeli ships… in the designated operational zone” – Yahya Saree. He warned that any Israeli ship attempting to violate the ban would be targeted until Gaza crossings reopen and humanitarian assistance is allowed. As of now, Israel has not publicly responded to these threats.

The backdrop of this announcement follows a recent ceasefire period in Gaza, which ended on March 1, after which Israel ceased negotiations for an extended truce and re-closed border crossings. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aims to secure more hostage releases, without fulfilling broader commitments, a strategy some claim appeases hardline groups. Concurrently, Hamas is pressing for the initiation of new talks to secure a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Since November 2023, the Houthis have conducted missile and drone strikes against Israeli assets, reflecting their support for Gaza. Israel has, in response, targeted Houthi military installations in Yemen. Reports indicate that the conflict has claimed over 48,500 lives, primarily among women and children, since the escalation of hostilities began in October 2023.

Moreover, the International Criminal Court has raised war crime charges against Israeli officials for their actions in Gaza, and the International Court of Justice is pursuing a genocide case related to the situation.

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The Houthi group has reaffirmed its threat to block Israeli ships in response to the delay in humanitarian aid to Gaza, aligning its military strategy with its support for the Palestinian cause. Their commitment to military action, if Israel continues to breach the blockade, highlights the ongoing tensions in the region. Israel’s response, or lack thereof, coupled with the situation in Gaza, continues to evolve amidst international scrutiny and calls for accountability regarding war crimes.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr