Interim Industry Transit Advice, Southern Red Sea/Gulf of Aden – 5 February 2024

Houthi forces in Yemen have continued to attack international shipping in the Southern Red Sea, the Bab el Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden.

Since Houthi forces hijacked a car carrier on 19 November 2023, they have committed further attacks on shipping.

The Houthi forces continue to demand vessels to steer for the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeida where hijacking and hostage-taking might follow.

Vessels should use extreme caution when considering these demands and resist the request to divert course.

The Houthi forces appear to be threatening vessels they believe have affiliation / links with Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The accuracy of information used by the Houthi forces is uncertain, and links between attacked vessels and the states they claim to target is unclear. All ships transiting this area should remain vigilant, as there is potential for collateral damage from unintended strikes.

Military sources advise Houthi forces may also masquerade as Yemeni Coastguard officials.