The Iran-backed Yemeni rebel group has escalated threats against international shipping days after being re-designated as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Days after the Trump administration re-designated Yemen’s Houthi rebels as a foreign terrorist organization, the group issued a new warning targeting “any Israeli vessel” operating in Middle Eastern waters.
The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, have conducted a campaign of attacks against commercial shipping since November 2023, targeting over 100 merchant vessels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. Their assaults have resulted in two sunken ships and the deaths of at least four sailors.
Houthi Threats Disrupt Global Trade
The latest warning, reported by the Associated Press, comes as the Houthis attempt to pressure Israel into resuming aid shipments to Gaza.
“The warning from the Houthis again throws into chaos a crucial maritime waterway between Asia and Europe, threatens revenue from Egypt’s Suez Canal, and possibly will halt aid shipments to war zones,” the report states.
Houthi military officials claim their attacks are driven by “a religious, humanitarian, and moral responsibility” to pressure Israel into reopening border crossings for food and medical aid into Gaza.
Expanded Targets Raise Alarms for Global Shipping
According to maritime security firm Ambrey, the Houthis have adopted an expansive definition of what constitutes an ‘Israeli vessel’.
The rebels have indicated that their attacks will extend beyond Israeli-flagged ships, potentially targeting any ship that is:
- Partially owned by Israeli individuals or entities
- Managed or operated by Israeli-linked companies
- Heading to Israeli ports
- Belonging to companies that conduct business with Israel
This broad targeting criteria has already forced global shipping companies to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks of travel time and billions in additional costs.
Western Forces Brace for Escalation
The United States military has described its ongoing operations against Houthi threats as the most serious naval combat since World War II.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that American and allied forces remain vigilant in the region, prepared to respond to continued attacks against international shipping.
As tensions rise, global shipping firms and security analysts warn that the Houthis’ latest threats could lead to a significant escalation in Red Sea conflicts, increasing the risk of direct military engagement between the Iran-backed militants and Western naval forces.
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