Yemen's Houthi-run maritime coordination body has denied reports that it plans to impose fees on commercial ships transiting the Bab el-Mandeb strait, asserting that passage through the vital waterway remains free of charge.
The statement comes in response to a Reuters report, citing regional sources, which indicated that the Iran-aligned Houthi movement was considering such fees. This alleged proposal was reportedly discussed with Iranian officials during a visit by Houthi representatives to Tehran in July, although no implementation timeline was specified.
The Houthi-operated Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) clarified that its "safe transit service was a voluntary and cost-free service." The organization explicitly stated that any individual or entity demanding payment for transit through the Bab el-Mandeb strait does not represent Yemen or the HOCC.
The HOCC urged shipping companies to refrain from making any payments or divulging information to unauthorized parties, reinforcing its commitment to facilitating unimpeded maritime traffic.
