Houthis announce naval blockade of Saudi Arabia
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have announced a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia and warned they are prepared for further escalation of the conflict, according to Yemen's Armed Forces spokesperson, Brigadier General Yahya Saree.
The Houthis said the move was a response to Saudi Arabia's years-long blockade of Yemen. They claimed that for nearly 12 years, Saudi Arabia has restricted access to Yemeni ports, airports, and land crossings, creating a severe humanitarian crisis in the country.
According to the statement, the group will follow a policy of "blockade in response to blockade."
The group also warned that it is prepared for any scenario. The statement said that if Saudi Arabia further escalates the situation, the Houthis are ready to respond with "comprehensive and severe escalation."
The Houthis also urged their supporters to continue the general mobilization and remain prepared for various scenarios.
The statement also mentions a strike on Sanaa International Airport, which the Houthis describe as the beginning of the aggression against Yemen.
According to the document, the Saudi Arabian naval blockade took effect immediately after its release
Meanwhile, the situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, with tensions between the US and Iran spiking in recent days.
According to The Washington Post, following a series of attacks on US military facilities in Jordan and Iraq that killed three American service members, Washington is considering expanding its military operation in the region.
