The Iran-backed Houthis have vowed to attack Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea and surrounding waters unless Israel lifts its blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have issued a stark ultimatum, threatening fresh attacks on Israeli ships and businesses unless Israel lifts its blockade on Gaza aid deliveries.

The Houthis’ Humanitarian Operations Coordination Centre announced Wednesday that any Israeli vessel or business interests in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Bab el-Mandeb Strait, or Arabian Sea would be targeted if Israel did not resume allowing humanitarian supplies into Gaza.

This escalation follows Israel’s decision to halt aid deliveries this month in a bid to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages. The move triggered global condemnation, with severe shortages of food and medicine reported in Gaza.

The Houthis have a history of aggressive naval attacks, having targeted over 100 vessels between November 2023 and January 2024, sinking two and killing four sailors. Their definition of “Israeli-linked” ships has been broad, raising concerns that other vessels could also be caught in the crossfire.

The US military has vowed to defend its personnel and partners, escalating tensions in the already volatile Red Sea region. With the Houthis’ deadline for Israel to act expiring Tuesday, fears are mounting that renewed attacks could be imminent.

Maritime security analysts warn that unless diplomatic intervention occurs, the region could see a dramatic escalation in hostilities, with global trade routes facing significant disruption.