Houthis warn ships away from blockade zone

Yemen's Houthi rebels have broadcast wireless warnings to ships operating in the Red Sea and nearby waters. This action follows their recent declaration of a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia. The International Chamber of Shipping confirmed the rebels transmitted these messages to vessels transiting the region.

The warnings are understood to be an attempt to prevent ships from entering zones designated as blockaded by the Houthi forces. The rebels had previously announced restrictions on passage for ships navigating these specific areas.

While the warnings have been issued, it remains unconfirmed whether any ships have faced direct attacks after receiving these messages. The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden are critical global shipping routes connecting Europe and Asia. The Houthi rebels' actions in this vital waterway raise concerns for international maritime trade.

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We can confirm that warning messages have been recorded being transmitted by the Houthi rebels to vessels in the area.