As of 20 May 2025 at 00:01 Sana’a local time, the Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) has enacted a comprehensive maritime navigation prohibition to and from the Port of Haifa. This decision follows a formal announcement by the Yemeni Armed Forces and is framed as a response to the ongoing military operations by Israeli forces in Gaza.

The prohibition includes all forms of maritime activity – direct, indirect, and ship-to-ship (STS) transfers – effectively barring vessels from loading or unloading at the port. The HOCC has communicated this directive to the global maritime community, emphasising the need for heightened due diligence and sanctions compliance. Shipowners and operators are urged to verify all counterparties and transactions to avoid inadvertent dealings with sanctioned entities.

The HOCC’s decision is rooted in what it describes as a moral and humanitarian obligation to pressure Israel into ceasing hostilities in Gaza and allowing humanitarian aid to enter the region. The sanctions framework, including the newly referenced SR-SUZE regulation, outlines the legal and operational consequences for non-compliance.

Operational context and risk outlook

According to the latest Risk Intelligence Report (as of 14 May 2025), while no direct attacks on merchant vessels have been recorded in the southern Red Sea or Gulf of Aden in the past 30 days, the geopolitical environment remains volatile. The Houthis have maintained a severe threat posture toward vessels linked to Israel and an elevated threat level for those associated with the US, UK, and other coalition forces. The ceasefire agreement announced on 6 May 2025 between the US and the Houthis has not altered the Houthis’ stance on Israeli-linked maritime activity.

The report also notes that while the Red Sea campaign has been paused since January 2025, the Houthis retain the capability and intent to resume operations should political conditions shift. Shipowners and operators are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in light of the new prohibition and the potential for misidentification or collateral damage.

Maritime guidance

• Conduct immediate reviews of all voyages involving the Port of Haifa.
• Update risk assessments and voyage planning tools to reflect the new prohibition.
• Reinforce sanctions compliance protocols and due diligence procedures.
• Monitor updates from HOCC and regional intelligence sources for changes in threat levels.

This prohibition marks a significant escalation in the maritime dimension of the Gaza conflict and underscores the need for proactive risk management and compliance vigilance across the shipping industry.