Yemen's Houthis Deny Plans to Impose Fees on Ships in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi rebels have consistently denied reports that they plan to impose fees on commercial ships passing through the Bab al-Mandeb strait in the Red Sea. The group's maritime coordination body has stated that no such decision has been taken and that passage through the strategic waterway remains free. These denials come after Reuters reported that the Houthis were considering charging fees for ships navigating through the southern Red Sea, following their declaration of a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia. The Houthis have also clarified that their 'safe passage service' is voluntary and free of charge.