Coalition warns of Houthi arms smuggling via traditional vessels

The Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen has issued a warning regarding the escalation of arms smuggling operations by Houthi militias. The coalition stated that the group is using deceptive methods to transport missiles, military equipment, and ammunition through territorial waters and traditional maritime routes.

According to the coalition, the Houthis are exploiting four main types of traditional vessels typically used by local fishermen and traders: ‘Al-Zaeema’ ships, ‘Al-Houri’ boats, ‘Al-Jalba’ vehicles, and ‘Sambuq’ boats. These wooden vessels are used to conceal shipments of ballistic missiles and drones amidst regular fishing and sailing activities to avoid aerial and maritime detection.

The coalition warned Yemeni vessel owners and sailors to refrain from dealing with the Houthi militia or facilitating the transport of smuggled military equipment. It emphasized that any vessel involved in such illegal activities will face military monitoring and potential sanctions to protect regional security and international maritime freedom in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.