Yemen’s Houthi movement has announced a maritime blockade on Israel’s Haifa Port, heightening regional tensions and impacting global shipping routes. The Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that Israeli-affiliated vessels entering Haifa or navigating through key waterways like the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait would be considered legitimate targets. This declaration builds on a previous ban by the Houthis on Israeli shipping through critical maritime trade routes.
The Haifa Port, located in northern Israel, is a major commercial gateway for the country and a critical hub for regional logistics. While the immediate impact on port operations is still being assessed, maritime experts are closely monitoring potential ripple effects through vital shipping routes. In January, reports indicated that shipping companies remained cautious about returning to Red Sea trade routes, despite the recent Gaza ceasefire agreement.
