UK Trade Authority Warns of Houthi Detention of Commercial Vessels at Ras Isa Port
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued a warning regarding the detention of commercial vessels by Houthi forces at Yemen's Ras Isa port. According to UKMTO, the Houthis have prevented ships, which had received clearance from the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism (UNVIM), from departing the port. Reports indicate that Houthi forces have employed coercive measures, including boarding vessels and firing warning shots, to enforce these detentions.
The maritime tracking service VesselFinder has reported that at least 11 vessels are currently being held at the port. These include tankers carrying various petroleum products, such as liquefied petroleum gas and crude oil. Among the detained ships is the VLGC Gaz GMS, a large gas carrier owned by India's Sun Shine Shipmanage, and the LR1 Palm, operated by Turkey's Sand Gemi Isletmeciligi.
This development follows a series of U.S. airstrikes targeting the Ras Isa port, which the U.S. military asserts is a significant revenue source for the Houthi movement. A recent strike reportedly resulted in substantial casualties and damage to port infrastructure.
The situation has raised concerns over the safety of maritime navigation in the Red Sea, a critical corridor for global trade. Shipping companies are advised to exercise heightened caution when operating in the vicinity of Houthi-controlled ports.
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