Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthis say they will block Saudi shipping at Red Sea gateway

Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have declared an immediate maritime ban against Saudi Arabia, citing it as retaliation for Saudi actions in Yemen. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree emphasized this "an eye for an eye" response in a recent video statement. This move is likely to heighten tensions in the Red Sea, a critical global shipping route, and could disrupt international trade. The escalation underscores the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where Saudi Arabia leads a coalition supporting the internationally recognized government against the Houthis.