Red Sea Danger: Yemen's Houthis to Monitor Ceasefire, but Ships Remain at Risk

The Iran-backed Houthi movement's leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi stated that his group will monitor the implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas aimed at ending the 15-month conflict in Gaza, and will resume attacks if the agreement is breached.

The Houthis have targeted vessels using ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles in waters near Yemeni shores, presenting these actions as a show of solidarity with Palestinians. Since November 2023, they have launched attacks on over 100 vessels, sinking two ships, seizing one, and causing the deaths of at least four sailors. These attacks have disrupted global maritime shipping and forced some vessels to reroute around southern Africa instead of using the Suez Canal. This situation has driven up insurance premiums and delivery costs, raising global inflation concerns.

While some maritime security sources expect the Houthis to halt their attacks, others are taking a cautious approach and are not rushing to resume operations through the Red Sea. Laura-May Scott, a partner at the Reed Smith law firm, said: "Given the ongoing uncertainty and the fragility of the situation, shippers should exercise caution and monitor developments in the region closely."

The Houthis have controlled much of Yemen, including the capital Sana, since seizing power in late 2014. They have also launched attacks with missiles and unmanned aircraft against Israel, hundreds of kilometers to the north. Israel has responded by repeatedly targeting Houthi areas, bombing two ports and a power plant last week. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated last month that Israel's campaign against the Houthis is still in its early stages.

In December 2023, the United States and the United Kingdom launched a multinational operation in the Red Sea to protect trade and conducted airstrikes to deter Houthi attacks. In February, the European Union launched its own Red Sea mission to counter escalating Houthi attacks and protect this vital shipping corridor.

Key Points:

\n

• The Houthis have announced they will resume attacks if the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is breached.

\n

• Since November 2023, the Houthis have attacked over 100 vessels, sunk two ships, and killed at least four sailors.

\n

• These attacks have caused disruptions in global maritime shipping and increased insurance costs.

\n

• The U.S. and UK have launched a multinational operation to protect trade in the Red Sea, and the European Union has deployed its own mission.

\n

• Israel has conducted airstrikes against Houthi areas and stated that operations will continue.

\n

---

-------------------

We would be delighted to hear your feedback.

Wishing you happy reading.