The Coalition Joint Forces Command announced that it has begun implementing operational measures to protect commercial shipping transiting the Bab al-Mandab Strait, warning that it will respond “firmly and decisively” to threats targeting international navigation.

In a statement issued on Monday, the coalition said the measures are being carried out in accordance with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, following recent Houthi threats to impose a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia and target vessels heading to Saudi ports. 

The coalition accused the Houthis of being responsible for disrupting Yemen’s ports and airports, stressing that the group’s actions have obstructed civilian movement and trade while threatening one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors. It added that any attacks on commercial shipping would constitute violations of international law and acts comparable to maritime piracy. 

Background

Yemeni Presidential Response

The coalition’s announcement comes shortly after Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi declared that the government would work to resume oil exports and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting Yemen’s sovereignty and restoring economic resources. His remarks placed responsibility for the country’s economic crisis on the Houthi movement and signaled that safeguarding strategic infrastructure and maritime routes had become a national priority.

Houthi Escalation

The coalition statement follows the Houthis’ announcement of an immediate maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, including threats against vessels bound for Saudi ports under what the group called a “blockade for blockade” doctrine, marking one of its most significant escalatory steps in recent months. 

Sheba Intelligence Exclusive

One day before the Houthi announcement, Sheba Intelligence reported that senior Houthi military leaders had held high-level meetings and approved a transition from military preparations to an overt escalation phase, including plans to expand maritime pressure in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab. The coalition’s latest announcement represents the first official military response following that escalation sequence identified by Sheba Intelligence.