| Reported: 28 July 2025 | Location: The Red Sea |
Report Details
The Yemen Houthi Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) issued a statement on 27 July 2025. The Houthis announced that they will reinstate the fourth stage of the escalation of the naval blockade of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which involves “targeting all ships belonging to any company that deals with the ports of the Israeli enemy, regardless of the nationality of that company, and in any location within the reach of the armed forces”.
Comment. This statement enforces the Houthis’ announcement made in May 2024 regarding the blockade of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which stated,” The fourth stage of escalation against the American-British Zionist enemy is important because it targets the ships of all companies that transport goods to the Israeli enemy towards any port.”
Assessment. This latest development is assessed as ending the tentative ceasefire between the US and the Houthis that was agreed following US airstrikes on Houthi targets in May 2025. All ships, regardless of nationality, are now at risk of attack if their country operates vessels in, or is seen to be supporting, Israel. Vessel owners and operators should carry out a thorough risk assessment and affiliation check for links to Israel before contemplating a transit of the Red Sea. Ships are reminded to remain vigilant when operating in the area and to comply with the guidance given in the BMP-Maritime Security bmp-ms_hi-res_s.pdf and consider the use of an Armed Security Team to mitigate some of the threats in the area. Contact Neptune P2P Group, if you require any further assistance.
