Iran-aligned Houthi authorities warn shipping companies against loading or discharging cargo at Saudi Arabian ports, saying vessels that do so could be targeted. Multiple outlets report that an email was sent to shipping firms by the Houthis’ Sanaa-based Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC), which states that “vessels are banned” from carrying out such port activity at or from any Saudi ports. The message also tells companies to exercise “due diligence and the utmost care” in dealings.
The warning further says that ships violating the instruction may face sanctions, and may be subject to targeting “in any location” within the Houthis’ operational reach. One report adds that the conditions take effect at 12:01 GMT on July 20.
Separately, several accounts link the port warning to a Houthi declaration of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia announced on Monday. The blockade is described as potentially expanding the conflict beyond the Gulf, with possible implications for global energy supply and shipping routes. The reports rely on the content of the email as reviewed by Reuters, as described by the outlets.
