Saudi-led Coalition Warns of Force Against Houthi Ship Threats

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen said Monday it will respond with force to threats made by Houthi rebels against ships in the region. The statement came after the Houthis declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict. The coalition announced it has started implementing safety measures for vessels passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital waterway connecting the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. The strait is a key route for global oil shipments and trade. In a separate statement, Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry strongly condemned the Houthi allegations that the kingdom is besieging the Yemeni people, calling them "baseless." The ministry rejected the Houthi claims and reaffirmed Saudi support for the internationally recognized Yemeni government. The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen including the capital Sanaa, have frequently targeted ships in the region during the civil war. The Saudi-led coalition has been backing Yemeni government forces since 2015. The conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis, with millions facing food and medical shortages. The latest exchange of threats raises concerns about further disruptions to maritime traffic and potential escalation of violence.