The spokesman for the Saudi Arabia-led multinational coalition, Maliki, issued a statement on the 20th, saying that the coalition command has begun implementing measures to protect member states' vessels for the safe passage through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the coalition will respond swiftly and decisively to any threats posed by Yemen's 'Houthi Movement.'
Earlier that day, the spokesman for the Yemeni 'Houthi Movement,' Saree, announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, stating that the move was in response to Saudi Arabia's nearly 12-year-long, comprehensive blockade of Yemen by land, sea, and air. He also cited recent airstrikes against Sanaa International Airport as one of the reasons for this measure.
In response, Maliki stated that the Houthi's statements were fabricated lies intended to escalate actions against the Yemeni government and neighboring countries. He asserted that the 'Houthi Movement' is responsible for the closure of Sanaa International Airport and the destruction of Yemen Airways' fleet, and that the armed group has also refused the initiative to resume flights to and from the airport.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a statement on the same day, condemning the Houthi movement's accusations and the maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia.
The statement pointed out that in the face of economic difficulties and popular discontent, the 'Houthi Movement' is attempting to shirk responsibility by fabricating false accusations against Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia will, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, take all necessary measures to protect its ships.
Recent attacks on Sanaa International Airport have escalated regional tensions. The Yemeni 'Houthi Movement' blamed these attacks on Saudi Arabia and launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia in retaliation.
The 'Houthi Movement' warned that if Saudi Arabia participates in larger-scale military operations against Yemen, Saudi Arabian oil facilities and other strategic infrastructure may become targets.