Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi movement, issued a statement regarding the status of commercial shipping in the Red Sea. According to the announcement, the group considers the maritime corridor safe for international transit. However, the statement included a specific caveat, noting that Saudi-flagged or Saudi-linked vessels are excluded from this safety designation.

The declaration follows a period of heightened tension in the region, where Houthi forces have frequently targeted commercial and military vessels. By publicly distinguishing between general international shipping and Saudi interests, the group is signaling a shift in its tactical approach or a specific focus on its ongoing conflict with Saudi Arabia. The announcement does not provide details on how the group intends to enforce these distinctions or what security guarantees, if any, are being offered to non-Saudi commercial entities. International maritime authorities have not yet responded to the announcement, and it remains unclear whether this statement will lead to a reduction in the security risks currently faced by cargo ships operating in the area.