The spokesperson for Yemen's 'Youth Movement', Abdul Salam, stated on social media on the 24th that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has not been closed and that the recently announced maritime measures are only targeted at shipping related to Saudi Arabia.
The statement said that the maritime blockade announced by the 'Youth Movement' is 'only aimed at Saudi Arabia' and is a response to Saudi Arabia's blockade of areas controlled by the 'Youth Movement'. This move by the 'Youth Movement' aims to pressure Saudi Arabia to accept a fair solution.
On the 20th, the 'Youth Movement' announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia and warned international shipping companies that vessels trading with Saudi Arabian ports could face military strikes.
Bab el-Mandeb Strait Sees Rebound in Shipping Volume
On the 24th, international market service agency Kpler posted on social media that on the 23rd, the navigational situation diverged between the two key Middle Eastern maritime corridors: the Strait of Hormuz saw a clear decline in shipping volume, while the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, experienced a rebound.
According to Kpler data, on the 23rd, only 6 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz, representing a 60% decrease compared to the previous day. Except for one vessel, all others used routes designated by Iran.
Meanwhile, 49 vessels transited the Bab el-Mandeb Strait that day, higher than previous levels. This included 4 ships that turned off their Automatic Identification System (AIS) to sail "dark".
Kpler pointed out that some vessels that had previously turned back in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea due to security risks have now resumed their voyages and completed passage, but some ships continue to wait and observe after turning back.