Yemen's Houthi rebels on Saturday denied reports they intended to impose transit fees on commercial vessels passing through the Bab el-Mandeb strait, insisting navigation through the waterway remains free for all ships except those linked to Saudi Arabia.
The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center, a Houthi-affiliated body, dismissed the reports as inaccurate and said any safety navigation services it offers are voluntary and free of charge. The denial follows reports that Houthi leaders discussed a toll scheme with Iranian officials during a visit to Tehran. Yemen's Information Minister Mouammar Al-Iryani had accused the group of seeking to emulate Iran's efforts to levy passage fees in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Bab el-Mandeb strait has grown in strategic importance as an alternative route for Saudi oil exports amid disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz. Last week, the Houthis announced a blockade of Saudi ports on the Red Sea and claimed attacks on Saudi tankers and oil infrastructure.