Yemen govt: Houthis planning to impose fees on Red Sea transit under Iranian guidance

Published Jul 29, 05:36 PM UTC

Yemen's internationally recognized government accused Houthi rebels of planning, under Iranian guidance, to impose fees on ships transiting the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani stated that 'confirmed intelligence' indicates Iran's Revolutionary Guards are helping design the technical and administrative framework, including a dedicated entity to collect payments from shipping companies. The narrow maritime artery is critical for Saudi crude exports, especially after fighting in the Strait of Hormuz choked off other routes. Last week, the Houthis announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia and claimed attacks on Saudi tankers and oil infrastructure. The move is seen as an attempt to copy Iran's playbook in the Strait of Hormuz, potentially disrupting global energy markets.