AP: Red Sea shipping through Bab el-Mandeb falls 30% amid Houthi threats

Maritime traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has fallen by 30% since 21 July compared with the same period last month, as security threats from Yemen's Houthi movement continue to disrupt one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

The figures were reported by the Associated Press (AP), citing British maritime security firm Ambrey.

According to Ambrey, at least 10 commercial vessels turned back before entering the Red Sea chokepoint during the period because of the heightened risk posed by Houthi attacks.

The latest disruption follows an announcement on July 20 by Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree declaring a maritime shipping ban targeting Saudi Arabia. In response, Riyadh said it had begun implementing measures to protect commercial vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The Houthis subsequently claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes against two Saudi oil tankers, saying the attacks were carried out in response to what they described as violations of their blockade of the kingdom.

The deteriorating security situation has prompted a broader international response. On 30 July, military chiefs and defence representatives from 43 countries met in Riyadh to discuss a Saudi-led initiative to establish a multinational maritime defence coalition aimed at protecting international shipping through the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

By Aghakazim Guliyev