Yemen’s maritime coordination body has stated that the Houthis deny Red Sea transit fees, rejecting reports that commercial vessels would be charged for passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Officials said no such decision has been taken and that ships can continue using the strategic waterway without paying any fee.
The statement was issued after recent media reports suggested that Houthi officials were considering introducing transit charges for commercial ships operating in the southern Red Sea. According to those reports, the proposal was discussed during meetings with Iranian officials, although no implementation timeline had been finalized.
The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) clarified that its safe transit service remains completely voluntary and free of charge. The organization stressed that no payments are required from shipping companies using the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
In its official statement, the HOCC said that any individual or organization demanding money in exchange for safe passage does not represent either the Republic of Yemen or the coordination center. It urged maritime operators to remain cautious and verify official communications.
The coordination body also advised shipping companies not to transfer funds or share sensitive information with unauthorized individuals claiming to represent Yemeni authorities. Officials emphasized that only verified channels should be trusted for maritime guidance.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is one of the world’s most important maritime routes, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serving as a major corridor for global trade and energy shipments. Any developments affecting navigation in the area are closely monitored by international shipping companies.
As regional tensions continue, Houthis deny Red Sea transit fees remains the latest official position from Yemen’s maritime authorities. The statement seeks to reassure commercial shipping operators that navigation through the strategic waterway remains unchanged and free of charge.
