
Yemen's Houthis threaten to escalate attacks on ships linked to companies dealing with Israel
The Iran-backed Houthis launched a campaign targeting merchant vessels in response to the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, saying they were doing so in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Their attacks over the past two years have upended shipping in the Red Sea through which $1 trillion of goods usually passes each year.
In an announcement late Sunday night, the Houthis said they had decided to escalate their military support operations and begin implementing the fourth phase of the naval blockade against Israel.
They warned that they would target all ships belonging to any company that deals with the ports of the Israeli enemy, regardless of the nationality of that company, and in any location within the reach of our armed forces. The vessels would be targeted regardless of their destination, they added.

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United News of India
26 minutes ago
- United News of India
Terrorism handled with iron fist under Modi Govt: Shah in RS
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India Today
an hour ago
- India Today
We will not submit to Israel: Hezbollah rejects calls to surrender weapons
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Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, 5 others charged with running illegal poker games at his LA mansion
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