The Houthi forces in Yemen have just announced the beginning of a "new phase" in their campaign to attack commercial ships involving Israeli ports, regardless of the nationality or origin of the ship, RT reported.
The group's military spokesman, Ameen Hayyan, affirmed in a broadcast speech that the new phase would include "attacking all ships of any company that does business with the ports of the enemy of Israel, regardless of the company's nationality and in any position within the reach of our armed forces". Hayyan called on countries to cut off relations with Israel and pressure the country to end what he called the "G Gaza blockade".
Since November 2023, the Houthi group has attacked more than 100 ships in the Red Sea, sank four, seized one and killed at least eight crew members. In July, the group seized and sank two Greek-owned cargo ships, the Eternity C and Magic Seas.
The Houthis have also launched ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, many of which have been intercepted. In response, Israel conducted airstrikes on Houthi-related targets in Yemen, including port infrastructure.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned: "The Houthis will pay a heavy price for launching missiles at the State of Israel."
In May, the Houthis and the US reached a ceasefire mediated by Oman, ending a series of attacks ordered by President Donald Trump.
