In a significant development, the Houthi militant group in Yemen has officially enforced a ban on Israeli ships passing through key maritime routes, including the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden. 

This decision comes after Israel failed to meet the Houthis' ultimatum to allow the resumption of aid deliveries into Gaza.

The Houthis, who have been conducting maritime attacks since late 2023 in solidarity with Palestinians, announced that any Israeli ship attempting to violate this ban would be targeted. The group halted its attacks in January following a ceasefire in Gaza but threatened to resume them when Israel blocked all aid into the war-torn region.

The enforcement of this ban is expected to have significant implications for global trade, as it may deter container ships and tankers from sailing through the Suez Canal and the southern Red Sea. The Houthis' actions have already disrupted global shipping, forcing many vessels to take longer routes around Africa.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as the resumption of Houthi attacks poses a severe risk to all vessels in transit, regardless of their affiliation with Israel. The Houthis have stated that the ban will remain in effect until humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies, is allowed into Gaza.