The Minister of Information warns against Houthi attempts to legitimize terrorism during a seminar on maritime security.

The Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Muammar Al-Eryani, has issued a stern warning to shipowners, shipping companies, and insurers. He urged them not to respond to an invitation from the so-called Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC), controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi militia. This invitation calls for participation in an online discussion on “Maritime Security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.” Al-Eryani emphasized that the Houthis are trying to position themselves as experts in Red Sea security, despite being a significant threat to global maritime trade.

Escalating Threats to Maritime Navigation

In a recent press statement, Al-Eryani highlighted that the Houthi militia has escalated its threats against maritime navigation over the past year. They have launched hundreds of attacks using ballistic missiles, drones, and Iranian-made explosive boats. These assaults have resulted in the destruction of commercial vessels, the deaths of numerous sailors, and the seizure of other ships, all in blatant violation of international maritime laws.

Investigation Reveals Houthi Coordination

An investigation by the Swiss organization InPact revealed that the Houthi militia’s terrorist attacks on maritime navigation occur under the supervision of the HOCC. Established in February 2024, this center operates directly under the control of Mahdi Al-Mashat, with Ahmed Hamad managing its operations. Al-Eryani noted that the HOCC determines which companies can allow their vessels to transit through waters adjacent to Yemen, particularly the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Furthermore, the center plays a role in identifying targets and coordinating attacks against commercial ships and oil tankers, attempting to institutionalize the militia’s guerrilla warfare against maritime activities.

Direct Threats to Shipping Industry

Al-Eryani reported that the HOCC has sent direct threat messages via email to shipowners, shipping companies, and major maritime unions. These messages warn that vessels will be prohibited from crossing the Red Sea unless they comply with the militia’s demands. Additionally, the center provides ships with means for direct communication through radio devices, phone numbers, and email addresses.

Houthi Attempts to Legitimize Terrorism

The minister characterized the Houthi militia’s initiative as an attempt to legitimize their terrorist activities and portray themselves as a key player in maritime security under the guise of “humanitarian seminars.” He described this as a desperate effort to obscure their aggressive actions, which have led to the deaths of many innocents and threatened the global economy in one of the most crucial maritime trade routes.

Call for International Unity Against Houthi Terrorism

Al-Eryani warned that engaging with these misleading invitations from the Houthi militia, classified as a “terrorist organization” by several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, could expose involved parties to legal repercussions. He stressed that the militia not only threatens Red Sea security but also serves as a tool for Iran to advance its destructive agenda and strategic interests in the region.

The minister called on the international community to unite against the Houthi militia and take decisive action against this destructive terrorist project. He urged for the immediate classification of the militia as a “global terrorist group” and the prosecution of its leaders in international criminal courts for the crimes and violations committed against civilians, as well as their terrorist activities that blatantly violate international laws, treaties, and conventions.

 

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