Houthi group denies planning to charge fees in Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Yemen's Houthi-controlled Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) has denied reports that it plans to impose fees on commercial ships transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The HOCC clarified that no such decision has been made and emphasized that the vital maritime route remains open and free of charge.

The center issued a statement urging shipping companies not to pay or provide information to any unauthorized individuals or entities claiming to represent the Republic of Yemen or the HOCC. This move aims to prevent potential fraud and maintain the security of maritime passage.

The HOCC's statement directly refutes a Reuters report from Wednesday, which claimed the Houthis were considering a proposal to charge vessels passing through the southern Red Sea. This alleged proposal reportedly emerged a week after the Iran-backed group announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. Sources cited by Reuters suggested the fee proposal was discussed during a visit by Houthi officials to Tehran in July, though no implementation date was set.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical shipping lane connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, serving as a major artery for global trade. Any disruption or imposition of fees could have significant implications for international commerce.