Yemen Denies Joining US-Led Maritime Coalition Against Houthi Threats
The Yemeni government on Wednesday officially denied participation in a US-led international maritime coalition aimed at safeguarding shipping lanes in the Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait from Houthi attacks. This clarification came in response to media rumors about Yemen’s involvement, as reported by the state-run Saba news agency. A government official emphasized that such decisions are exclusively made by the country’s highest authorities, particularly the Presidential Leadership Council.
The statement came amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea region, following the Houthi group’s recent attacks on maritime targets. The Houthis, who control significant parts of northern Yemen and its western coastline, have claimed responsibility for targeting a Norwegian oil tanker headed to Israel. This attack aligns with their earlier warning against any vessels aiding Israel, currently involved in the Gaza conflict.
In December, the rebel group took credit for assaults on two vessels allegedly linked to Israel in the Bab Al-Mandab area. Additionally, since November 19, they have detained a ship with a crew of 52, further heightening concerns about maritime security in the region. The Yemeni official highlighted the need for support in protecting Yemen’s territorial waters and countering threats posed by the Houthi faction.
