Yemen’s Houthi rebels have given Israel a four-day ultimatum to lift the blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza, threatening to resume naval attacks on Israeli targets if their demand is not met.
In a statement released on Friday, Houthi leader al-Houthi warned Israel that failure to allow aid to reach Gaza within the next four days would lead to the resumption of their naval offensive against Israeli vessels. This marks a significant escalation in tensions, as it signals a potential end to the lull in Houthi attacks that had followed a January ceasefire in Gaza.
The Iran-backed Houthi group has been actively targeting ships in the Red Sea since November 2023, launching over 100 attacks on vessels. These strikes were framed as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, who were engaged in conflict with Israel. The Houthi attacks during this period resulted in the sinking of two ships, the hijacking of another, and the deaths of at least four sailors, disrupting international maritime traffic.
Al-Houthi emphasized that the four-day deadline would also serve as a time frame for Gaza ceasefire mediators to intensify their efforts. If Israel fails to allow humanitarian aid access or continues to block crossings after this period, the Houthis will resume their naval operations against Israeli targets.
The escalation comes after Israel intensified its restrictions on aid trucks entering Gaza on March 2, citing a deadlock in ceasefire negotiations. Hamas, in response, has called for international mediation by Egyptian and Qatari negotiators, and discussions with Israel are reportedly ongoing.
Liberty News’ international correspondent states that Hamas has welcomed the Houthi declaration, calling it a bold decision that builds on their previous support and assistance to Gaza during the ongoing 15-month conflict.
LND/BG
