In light of the recently announced ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Yemen's Ansar Allah movement, better known as the Houthis, announced a cessation of all military action against Israel. The announcement was a surprising turn in regional dynamics, given that the Houthis have been actively supporting the Palestinians through attacks on Israeli targets and Israeli-linked shipping in the Red and Arabian Seas.
A Houthi spokesman, speaking on the Houthi-controlled Al Masirah TV channel, stressed that the decision was solely related to the ceasefire in Gaza and expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people. However, his statement did not make it clear whether the ceasefire extended to attacks on shipping, which have significantly disrupted international trade routes in recent months.
Recall that since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began to escalate in October of the year before last, the Houthis have launched a campaign of attacks against Israel using drones and ballistic missiles. These actions have been seen as support for the Palestinians and pressure on Israel to stop military operations in Gaza. In addition, the Houthis have stepped up their activities in the Red Sea, attacking tankers and cargo ships that they claim are linked to Israel or its allies.
The maritime attacks have had significant economic repercussions, raising questions about the safety of shipping in one of the world’s key trade corridors. In response to the Houthi attacks, the US and UK have carried out a series of airstrikes on Houthi bases in Yemen, and have organized an international coalition to protect shipping in the region.
The ceasefire in Gaza, which led to the Houthis' current announcement, is part of a diplomatic effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict. However, the remaining uncertainties over the naval attacks could mean that tensions in the region remain. Experts suggest that the Houthis could use the moment to regroup or to demonstrate their political and military importance in the region.
Despite the declared end to hostilities, the impact of months of Houthi attacks on international trade has already had an impact on global prices for oil and other commodities.