Coalition Vows Swift Response to Houthi Threats Against Vessels in Bab Al-Mandab Strait

The Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen has declared its commitment to protecting commercial vessels transiting the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, vowing to respond decisively to any threats posed by Houthi militias. Major General Turki Al-Malki, the official spokesperson for the Coalition's Joint Forces Command, affirmed that all necessary operational measures will be executed in strict accordance with Customary International Humanitarian Law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

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The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition undertakes and executes all firm and resolute operational measures that fall in line with Customary International Humanitarian Law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to protect our commercial vessels transiting through Bab Al-Mandab Strait.

Al-Malki directly addressed and refuted claims suggesting the closure of Yemeni ports and airports. He provided statistics indicating significant maritime traffic, stating that over 300 commercial vessels carrying essential goods, including foodstuffs, oil, and construction materials, entered the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Isa during the first half of 2026. This assertion aims to counter narratives that might suggest a blockade or severe disruption of humanitarian access.

In contrast, Al-Malki placed blame on the Houthi militias for the ongoing closure of Sanaa International Airport. He further accused them of destroying the Yemenia Airways fleet and obstructing all efforts to resume flights to and from the airport. This framing positions the Houthis as the primary obstacle to civilian air travel and connectivity.

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The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition has initiated the implementation of protection measures for Coalition vessels transiting through Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The Coalition reiterated its proactive stance, emphasizing the initiation of protection measures for vessels navigating the Bab Al-Mandab Strait. "All Houthi threats against transiting vessels will be dealt with swiftly and firmly, as such threats are a blatant violation of international law and fall under acts of maritime piracy," Al-Malki stated, underscoring the gravity with which the Coalition views these actions and its resolve to maintain freedom of navigation.

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All Houthi threats against transiting vessels will be dealt with swiftly and firmly, as such threats are a blatant violation of international law and fall under acts of maritime piracy.