Yemen mass rallies back naval blockade of Saudi shipping

Large crowds gathered in Sabaeen Square in Sanaʽa and in eight other governorates across Yemen to endorse the armed forces' decision to impose a full naval blockade on Saudi Arabian vessels. Protesters chanted slogans supporting the “blockade versus blockade” equation and pledged to back any measures aimed at breaking what they describe as a Saudi‑imposed siege.

The demonstrations also reaffirmed loyalty to the Houthi leadership, with participants invoking the authority of Abdul‑Malik Badr al‑Din al‑Houthi and promising to supply fighters and resources. Organisers highlighted solidarity with the Palestinian cause and opposition to U.S. and Israeli policies, framing the maritime ban as a response to twelve years of perceived humanitarian hardship.

The coordinated night‑time rallies, described by local officials as “unprecedented,” spread from Sanaʽa to the provinces of Saʿada, Hajjah, ‘Amran, Al‑Mahwit, Dhamar, Ibb, Al‑Jawf, Raymah, Marib and Al‑Dhaleʽ, demonstrating a broad popular base behind the new strategic move against Saudi Arabia.