Key Takeaways
- Houthis claim they are not blocking traffic through the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
- Rebels have imposed a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia, targeting ships belonging to their foe.
- Traffic continues in the strait despite Houthi threats and course changes.
A spokesman for the Houthis has stated that they are not blocking traffic through the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, contradicting earlier reports of a complete closure. The rebels announced a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia this week, following an attack on a Saudi ship in the nearby Red Sea.
Mohammed Abdusalam, a top Houthi negotiator, made it clear that their position is 'limited to a maritime blockade that only affects the Saudi side.' This statement comes after global energy markets were rattled by renewed tensions between the US and Iran, with Brent crude briefly surging over $100 per barrel on Thursday following the Houthi attack.
The Houthis have warned ships in the area that they will target vessels 'belonging to (the) Saudi enemy' if they do not comply with their blockade. According to data analyzed by AFP, nine ships made a U-turn after the rebels announced their naval blockade, though some have resumed course. Despite these threats and changes in ship routes, traffic continues to flow through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The strait has become crucial for Saudi exports since passage through Hormuz became problematic due to Iran's blockade. Between March and mid-July 2026, Saudi seaborne crude exports via the Bab el-Mandeb strait surged eightfold compared with the same period in 2025, according to data from maritime tracker Kpler.
The Houthi attack on a Saudi ship in the Red Sea is part of ongoing tensions between the two sides. The rebels have attacked Saudi tankers in the past, threatening to create a new chokepoint in the Iran war. This latest development has raised concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies and regional stability.
While the Houthis deny closing the strait, their actions continue to impact maritime trade. The ongoing conflict highlights the delicate balance between economic interests and military tensions in the region.
There is no closure of Bab al-Mandab as some are suggesting.
Mohammed Abdusalam, Top Houthi negotiator
