Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Houthis Warn Ships Against Saudi Ports
The Houthi movement in Yemen has warned global shipping companies not to use Saudi Arabian ports.
They say ships that do could be targeted anywhere within their reach.
This comes after they announced a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia, which could disrupt global trade.
The Houthis say this is a response to Saudi actions in Yemen.
Shipping in the Red Sea has already been affected by previous Houthi attacks.
This new warning could make things even harder for ships and trade.
Houthis warn global shipping companies against using Saudi ports.
Vessels violating the directive could face sanctions and targeting.
Blockade announced as an 'eye for an eye' response to Saudi actions.
Red Sea shipping already disrupted by previous Houthi attacks.
Potential impact on global trade and energy supplies.
- Who
- Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement
- What
- Warning to global shipping companies against using Saudi ports
- When
- July 20, effective at 1201 GMT
- Where
- Saudi Arabian ports and any location within Houthi operational reach
- Why
- In response to Saudi actions against Yemen
Houthi Movement
Saudi Arabia
Blockade Justification
Houthi Movement
The Houthis claim the blockade is an 'eye for an eye' response to Saudi actions against Yemen.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has not publicly commented on the blockade but has been involved in the conflict in Yemen.
- Date of Warning
- July 20
- Effective Time
- 1201 GMT
- Issuing Body
- Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC)
- Targeted Ports
- All Saudi Arabian ports
- Potential Consequences
- Sanctions and targeting in any location within Houthi operational reach
- Previous Attacks
- Late 2023, in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza war
- Ceasefire
- October 2023