by Lloyd's List

12 March 2025 (Lloyd's List) - THE Houthis have announced the resumption of its blockade on Israeli vessels after issuing an ultimatum a few days ago.

The Yemini militia's spokesman Ameen Hayyan said in a statement posted on social media on March 11 that all Israeli ships are now prohibited from operating in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait and Gulf of Aden.

“This ban is in force from the moment this statement is issued. If any Israeli ship attempts to break this ban, it will be targeted in the designated operational zones."

"This restriction will continue until the crossings into Gaza are reopened and humanitarian aid—including food and medicine—is allowed in," the statement added.

The move follows a renewed deadlock in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, with Israel resuming attacks on Gaza and blocking all aid deliveries.

Meanwhile, Hamas has announced it will embark on a new round of talks with Israel, as US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff arrives in Doha to push for a new ceasefire deal.

Shipping companies still remain largely on the sidelines regarding the Red Sea situation, in no hurry to return to this key route connecting Europe and Asia, despite the nearly two-month pause in attacks.

The Houthis announced a partial stop to their attacks on January 19, 2025 after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was agreed. In the campaign preceding that, the group attacked more than 130 vessels, resulting in the total loss of multiple ships and the deaths of at least four seafarers.