Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on January 20 (local time), according to Yonhap News. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree announced the measure takes immediate effect under an 'eye for an eye' principle against what he called the 'criminal state' of Saudi enemies. The blockade responds to Saudi Arabia's closure of Houthi-controlled ports and airports, and last week's strike on Sanaa airport, with Saree emphasizing 'we will counter blockade with blockade.' The declaration comes amid heightened regional tensions following the closure of the Hormuz Strait due to US-Iran military confrontation, raising concerns about potential disruption to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—a critical passage for Saudi oil exports representing approximately 7% of global petroleum supply.
Houthi Rebels Declare Maritime Blockade Against Saudi Arabia on January 20
Yahya Saree, spokesperson for the Houthi rebels, announced on January 20 (local time) that the group is imposing a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. Saree stated the blockade takes immediate effect, declaring it under the principle of 'eye for an eye' against Saudi adversaries. The Iran-backed Houthi movement framed the action as a direct countermeasure to Saudi Arabia's ongoing restrictions on Houthi-controlled infrastructure.
Retaliation for Saudi Blockade and Sanaa Airport Strike
Saree identified the blockade as retaliation for Saudi Arabia's closure of Houthi-controlled ports and airports, as well as last week's strike on Sanaa airport. The Houthi spokesperson emphasized 'we will counter blockade with blockade.' The rebels accused Saudi Arabia of bombing Sanaa airport on January 13, prompting the Houthis to attack airports inside Saudi territory and declare an end to the ceasefire in response.
Potential Impact on Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Oil Exports
The Houthi maritime blockade declaration raises the possibility of restricted passage through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the entrance to the Red Sea. The Hormuz Strait, through which 20% of global energy shipments pass, is already closed due to US-Iran military confrontation. If Houthi forces block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the majority of Saudi Arabia's oil exports would be disrupted, reducing global petroleum supply by approximately 7%.
FAQ
What did Houthi rebels declare on January 20?
Houthi rebels declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on January 20 (local time). Spokesperson Yahya Saree announced the measure takes immediate effect under an 'eye for an eye' principle in response to Saudi Arabia's blockade of Houthi-controlled ports and airports and the strike on Sanaa airport.
Why did Houthi rebels announce a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia?
The blockade is retaliation for Saudi Arabia's closure of Houthi-controlled ports and airports, and the January 13 bombing of Sanaa airport. The Houthis attacked Saudi airports and ended the ceasefire in response to the Sanaa airport strike.
