Cairo Condemns Houthi Naval Blockade Threats
Egypt issued a formal statement on Tuesday strongly condemning threats made by Yemen’s Houthi movement to impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, characterizing the move as an irresponsible escalation that threatens regional stability.
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that the threats endanger the safety of maritime navigation, international trade, and vital waterways. According to Cairo’s official statement, the proposed blockade represents a blatant violation of international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Retaliatory Embargo Declared in Red Sea
The diplomatic condemnation follows an announcement issued on Monday by the Houthis declaring a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia.
The armed forces of the movement stated they were implementing the blockade against the Saudi government based on an “eye for an eye” equation, effective immediately. The Houthis stated the decision was a direct response to what they termed an unjust and oppressive siege imposed on Yemen by Saudi Arabia.
Global Oil Supplies Face Severe Disruptions
A full closure of the Bab El-Mandeb Strait, which serves as the southern gateway to the Red Sea, would halt Saudi oil exports destined for Asia and has the potential to reduce global oil supplies by 7%.
Coalition Deploys Protective Measures
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen vowed to respond firmly to the threats directed against commercial shipping. The alliance warned that the embargo endangers global energy supplies far beyond the boundaries of the Gulf.
According to a coalition statement, such actions constitute a blatant violation of international law and amount to acts of maritime piracy. The military alliance confirmed it has already begun implementing protective measures for commercial ships transiting through the Bab El-Mandeb Strait.
GCC Solidarity and Calls for Diplomacy
In its Tuesday statement, the Egyptian government emphasized its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and all member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Cairo expressed support for all measures undertaken by Gulf authorities to preserve their security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
At the same time, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the importance of prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions to de-escalate ongoing tensions and maintain broader regional stability.
