Saudi-Led Coalition Begins Protection Measures for Vessels Transiting Bab el-Mandeb
- Jul 21
- 1 min read
RIYADH, July 21, Saudi Arabia Breaking News — The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has begun implementing measures to protect its commercial vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait following threats issued by the Houthis, coalition spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Malki said.
Al-Malki said the Joint Forces Command would take “firm and resolute” operational measures consistent with customary international humanitarian law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“All Houthi threats against transiting vessels will be dealt with swiftly and firmly,” he said, describing such threats as violations of international law and acts of maritime piracy.
The coalition spokesperson also rejected Houthi claims that Yemeni ports and airports were being blockaded.
More than 300 commercial vessels entered the ports of Hodeida, Salif and Ras Isa during the first half of 2026, carrying food, goods, oil and construction materials, Al-Malki said.
He accused the Houthis of causing the closure of Sanaa International Airport, destroying the Yemenia Airways fleet and rejecting initiatives intended to resume flights to and from the airport.
Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is a critical passage for commercial shipping and energy exports between Asia and Europe.
