Houthi Rebels Warn Israeli Ships: A New Threat in Mideast Waters

The Yemeni Houthi rebels have issued a warning to ships, specifically targeting Israeli vessels in the Middle East waters, demanding Israel to allow aid into the Gaza Strip. This action emerges from their religious and humanitarian principles, aiming to apply pressure on Israel to reopen aid routes.

In a bold threat that could exacerbate tensions in the region, Yemen's Houthi rebels have declared that Israeli ships traversing Middle East waters have become potential targets. This announcement follows an unmet deadline wherein the rebels demanded Israel resume aid shipments to the Gaza Strip.

The Houthis' Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center released a statement highlighting the religious and moral motivations behind their warning, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the Palestinian people in what they perceive as a humanitarian crisis.

The areas under potential threat include key maritime routes like the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the Arabian Sea. However, there have been no reported attacks on vessels following this announcement so far.

(With inputs from agencies.)