Maritime risk management experts Ambrey have issued their latest threat circular regarding the Houthis’ announcement about targeting vessels. The summary is as follows:
- On the afternoon of 3 May 2024, the Houthis announced that they would “immediately” target vessels headed to Israel from the Mediterranean Sea.
- It is assessed that the Houthis possess the capability to target shipping in the eastern Mediterranean Sea from Yemen.
- The Houthis, along with other Iranian-backed ‘Islamic Resistance’ groups based in the eastern Mediterranean, may attempt to target offshore shipping.
- These groups have had limited success in targeting Israeli ports, causing minor damage to Eilat. Although not widely reported, they have targeted offshore Israeli infrastructure.
- Merchant vessels heading towards Israeli ports are strongly advised to review their security measures as outlined in the circular: https://ambrey.com/app/uploads/2024/05/AMBREY-THREAT-UPDATE-Houthi-statement-on-the-Mediterranean-Sea-and-an-Israeli-Rafah-Offensive.pdf
- In response to the offensive on Rafah, the Houthis have threatened to target ships and companies of any nationality in their area of operations that are known to be supplying and entering Israel.
On 18 May 2024, the Houthis launched a rocket attach on the oil carrier MT “Wind” confirming the continued threat in the region and the ability of the Houthis to strike vessels attempting to pass through the Gulf of Aden.
