Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen warned they may resume drone and missile attacks on Red Sea shipping after Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran on Saturday.
Iran has long supported the Houthis, who control roughly 40% of Yemen. Media reports cited two anonymous senior Houthi officials saying attacks on merchant vessels could begin as soon as Saturday night, though Houthi media had not issued official confirmation.
The Houthis’ attacks in support of Palestinians in Gaza, which began in late 2023, effectively shut down the vital Red Sea–Suez Canal trade corridor. Vessel operators diverted services connecting Asia and the Middle East to Europe and the U.S. on longer voyages around the tip of Africa, adding time and cost.
Naval forces from the European Union and the United States provided escorts for merchant vessels in the region while also conducting bombing missions inside Yemen.
The intensity of attacks later waned as Iran dealt with domestic issues. The Yemeni group agreed to stand down after Israel and Hamas reached a tenuous ceasefire in October 2025, with only minor, scattered incidents since.
In January, global container lines CMA CGM and Maersk resumed scheduled services through the Red Sea with naval support. But Maersk on Friday withdrew some voyages amid deteriorating security conditions.
