Houthis refuse vessel departure from Ras Isa port using threats

UKMTO has reported a series of alarming incidents in late April and early May, involving vessels anchored off the port of Ras Isa, located in Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen.

According to UKMTO, multiple vessels with valid clearance from the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism for Yemen (UNVIM) have been denied permission to depart the anchorage. Despite international authorization, local authorities have reportedly ordered some of these ships to move to berths alongside the port, issuing such directives under threats of violence.

At least one incident involved warning shots fired near a vessel, while others have been boarded by armed personnel. These actions underscore the increasing risk to commercial maritime traffic operating in or near Houthi-controlled ports, with vessels facing possible detainment or obstruction upon arrival.

source : safety4sea