Barran Press
On December 17, 2024, the Houthi militia, which is internationally designated as a terrorist organization, announced plans to host a seminar, including an online session, focused on "Maritime Security in the Red Sea." They have reached out to shipping companies for assistance with ideas and topics for the agenda.
According to maritime news site TradeWinds, the Houthis have sent emails to shipping firms requesting insights to enrich discussions, with the location and date of the event yet to be determined. This comes after the group launched numerous attacks on commercial vessels last year, resulting in the deaths of four sailors.
The email was sent by the events manager of the Houthi-run Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC), which previously threatened shipping companies with potential attacks. The HOCC had warned shipowners in October, as noted in a UN report, that vessels must comply with Houthi authorities or risk being barred from transiting the Red Sea.
TradeWinds confirmed the authenticity of the recent email, noting that it significantly differs from previous communications and encourages input on the current state of maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, as well as Yemen's role in international shipping security.
The email emphasized that the request was made "to enhance cooperation and discuss issues of mutual interest," stating, "Your active participation will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this event and achieve the desired impact."
This announcement follows indirect discussions between the Houthis and Western security officials regarding the safe passage of vessels amid ongoing attacks. Earlier this month, Admiral Vassilios Grigoris, head of the European Union’s maritime mission in the region, mentioned using political channels to communicate with the militia after an attack on the 163,800-ton vessel, Sounion, in August.
The EU mission highlighted the risks posed to the Yemeni coast if the vessel's cargo leaked, while advising shipowners to refrain from responding to Houthi communications. Industry leaders stated that engaging with the Houthis should be the responsibility of governments, not shipping companies.
The Houthis have not publicly declared their intention to hold an international maritime security conference, which some interpret as a potential shift away from targeting commercial vessels, citing support for Gaza in its conflict with Israel.
Since October, the Houthis have escalated rocket and drone attacks on commercial ships in the Red and Arabian Seas, leading to increased marine insurance costs and prompting many international shipping companies to opt for the much longer route around the southern tip of Africa.
In response to these threats, the U.S.-led Prosperity Guard coalition, with significant British participation, began airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen in January 2024, while the militia expanded its operations to include vessels linked to Washington and London.