Yemen’s Houthi movement has denied reports that it plans to charge ships for passing through the Red Sea. In a statement issued on Saturday, the group said vessels can still transit the waterway freely.
The response appears aimed at pushing back against claims of new shipping fees on one of the world’s most closely watched maritime routes. The Red Sea remains a critical corridor for international trade, so any suggestion of added charges can quickly draw regional and global attention.
According to the statement, the Houthis rejected the idea that ships would have to pay to use the route. Their message was that passage through the Red Sea remains open and free, countering the earlier report.
The denial comes as security and access in the Red Sea continue to be monitored closely by shipping companies, governments and traders. Even limited reports about possible new costs or restrictions can affect how the route is viewed across global markets.
