Yemen maritime restrictions amid military activity near Bab el-Mandeb

Fishing restrictions and maritime curfews have been implemented along parts of the Yemeni coast, amid heightened military activity near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

In the Al-Mudariaba and Ras al-Ara districts of Lahj Governorate, local authorities have declared a state of emergency and imposed a daily maritime curfew from 5:00 PM to 6:00 AM. This measure was issued to protect fishermen and sailors from potential gunfire and military engagement due to the volatile security situation in the region.

Reports from Shiba Intelligence indicate that Houthi forces have ordered fishermen along the Red Sea coast to cease sailing for periods of two to three days. While the exact scope and reasoning remain unclear, analysts suggest these restrictions may be linked to several military scenarios, including naval maneuvers, the transport of military equipment via small vessels to avoid detection, the deployment of new maritime systems, or the planting of sea mines near strategic maritime corridors.