Yemen has announced the resumption of strikes against Israeli vessels in critical maritime regions off its coast, following the expiration of a deadline for ‘Israel’ to reopen the Gaza Strip’s crossings. The Yemeni Armed Forces confirmed the decision on Wednesday, citing a directive from Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, leader of the Ansarullah resistance movement.
Al-Houthi had previously granted ‘Israel’ a four-day ultimatum to reopen the crossings that have been shut down in an attempt to pressure Hamas into releasing Israeli captives held in Gaza. This blockade has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the region, where Palestinians have endured over 15 months of Israeli aggression.
#معركة_الفتح_الموعود_والجهاد_المقدس pic.twitter.com/ydBfL1lB7V
— أمين حيان Ameen Hayyan (@AmeenHa2024yan) March 11, 2025
With mediators unable to achieve a resolution, Yemen has taken a firmer stance in support of the Palestinian cause. “Effective immediately, all Israeli ships are banned from navigating designated operational zones, including the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and Gulf of Aden,” the Armed Forces stated. They warned that any Israeli vessels attempting to breach this prohibition would face targeted strikes.
This ban will remain in effect until crossings into Gaza are reopened and humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies, is allowed entry. The Yemeni forces reiterated their solidarity with the Palestinian people, highlighting their unwavering support for resistance efforts in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank, which has also faced intensified Israeli aggression.
Yemeni officials, including al-Houthi, had made clear their readiness to resume military operations should humanitarian relief not reach Gaza. The initial strikes against Israeli shipping began after the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, severely impacting Israel’s economy and contributing to rising commodity prices for settlers in the occupied territories.
Source: Agencies (edited and translated by Al-Manar English Website)
