The Iran-backed Houthi group is now conditioning the entry of humanitarian aid into areas under its control on the shipments arriving "exclusively" via Oman. This stipulation follows the cessation of shipping lines to Hodeidah port, which sustained significant damage from Israeli strikes last month, according to a recent UN report.

A new report by the World Food Programme (WFP) reveals that the Houthi-aligned "Supreme Political Council" recently sent a letter to all relief organizations. The letter indicated their approval for humanitarian aid to enter through Yemeni government-controlled areas but with the stringent condition that these shipments originate "exclusively" from Oman.

The Houthi political council did not provide reasons for this demand, nor did it explain why the Iran-backed group is refusing aid from other sources or through ports under the control of the internationally recognized government.
The WFP stated in its report that it has advised all humanitarian partners to "take into account" this directive while implementing their emergency plans, after verifying with relevant authorities. This temporary measure is in effect until shipping lines to Hodeidah port resume operations, which the WFP confirmed is not expected before next month.

While other Red Sea ports remain operational, Hodeidah port faces a significant challenge due to the halt in shipping operations following severe damage from recent raids in mid-May. The WFP indicated that its headquarters has been in contact with international shipping lines and their local agents, who have confirmed that shipping operations will not resume until July. The recent strikes reportedly impacted the infrastructure and overall operational capacity of the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Issa.