Houthis Warn Global Shipping Firms Over Ties with Israeli Ports

In a fresh escalation amid the ongoing Red Sea tensions, Yemen's Houthi rebels have issued a warning to international shipping companies, threatening to target vessels associated with businesses that maintain commercial ties with Israeli ports.The statement, released via the Houthis' official spokesperson, comes as part of their continued stance against Israel and its allies, citing what they describe as solidarity with the Palestinian cause, especially in light of the ongoing Gaza conflict.“We will consider any ship owned by or operated for companies that trade with Israeli ports as a legitimate target,” the spokesperson declared. The group claims this measure is a response to global silence over what they term “Zionist aggression” in Gaza.

Shipping routes in the Red Sea have already seen major disruptions in recent months due to Houthi attacks. Several international shipping firms have had to re-route vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing travel time and costs significantly.Analysts warn this new threat could deepen existing strains on global trade, especially as the Houthis expand their definition of "legitimate targets" to include firms only indirectly linked to Israel.

Meanwhile, maritime security agencies are urging ships operating in the region to heighten precautions and monitor advisories from regional naval forces. The US and UK have carried out multiple strikes against Houthi infrastructure in the past in response to attacks on commercial vessels, but the rebel group continues to demonstrate resilience and regional influence.The latest development underlines the broader geopolitical implications of the Israel-Gaza conflict and the potential risks for international commerce in volatile zones.