Saudi-Led Coalition Warns of Firm Action Against Houthi Threats in Bab al-Mandab
The Saudi-led coalition has pledged a firm response to recent threats by Yemen's Houthi movement following the group's announcement of a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia.
Coalition spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki said measures have been put in place to protect coalition vessels passing through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He warned that any attacks or threats against commercial or coalition ships would be met with a strong and decisive response.
Al-Maliki described the Houthi threats as violations of international law and acts of maritime piracy. He added that the coalition's actions are being carried out in accordance with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
He also rejected claims that Yemen's ports and airports had been closed, stating that more than 300 commercial ships entered the Houthi-controlled ports of Hodeidah, Salif and Ras Isa during the first half of 2026, delivering food, fuel and construction materials.
