Houthis deny planning to impose fees on transit through the Bab al-Mandab Strait - Sarmad

The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center, affiliated with the Ansar Allah movement (the Houthis), categorically denied the accuracy of media reports claiming that the group intends to impose financial fees on ships in exchange for transiting the Bab al-Mandab strait, affirming that passage through the strait is entirely free of charge.

In a press statement issued on Saturday, the center clarified that the “safe passage” service provided to ships and companies outside the scope of the announced blockade in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea is optional and free. This service enables the relevant vessels to submit transit confirmation requests through official channels at no cost.

Earlier, on Wednesday, Reuters reported that regional sources indicated the Houthis were considering imposing fees on commercial ships transiting the southern Red Sea.

The sources stated that the group was exploring mechanisms to levy fees on most vessels passing through the Bab al-Mandab strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a vital corridor for global trade and energy shipments.

Reuters added, citing sources, that China had held direct communications with the Houthis to obtain assurances allowing its tankers to transit the Bab al-Mandab strait safely.