Mon Jan 20 16:38:38 UTC 2025: ## Houthi Rebels Pledge to Limit Ship Attacks Pending Full Gaza Ceasefire Implementation

**Aden, Yemen** – The Houthi rebels in Yemen have announced a significant de-escalation of their attacks on commercial shipping, contingent upon the full implementation of the recently agreed Gaza ceasefire. The Sanaa-based Humanitarian Operations Coordination Centre (HOCC), which acts as a liaison between the Houthis and shipping companies, stated Sunday that they will cease targeting vessels owned by, or flagged in, the US and UK. However, attacks on Israeli-linked ships will only cease upon the complete fulfillment of all phases of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

This announcement follows a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that went into effect on Sunday, aiming to end 15 months of conflict in Gaza. The Houthi spokesperson confirmed to Al Jazeera that the group would also halt military operations against Israel itself if the truce holds.

Over the past year, Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden have disrupted global maritime trade. More than 100 attacks have been carried out, resulting in the sinking of two vessels and the deaths of at least four seafarers. This forced many major shipping companies to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, significantly increasing shipping costs and insurance premiums.

While the number of targeted ships remained relatively low compared to overall traffic, the Houthi strategy proved effective in raising costs, adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to voyages through the region. Shipping companies remain cautious, with Hapag-Lloyd stating they will only resume Red Sea operations once safety is guaranteed. BIMCO, a shipping association, expressed optimism for a gradual return to normal operations *if* the ceasefire holds.

The Houthis’ actions are seen as a direct response to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and previous actions by the US and UK against the group. The conflict has seen retaliatory strikes from the US and UK on Houthi targets in Yemen, as well as Israeli strikes on Houthi-controlled infrastructure. The uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire’s longevity means a full return to the Red Sea remains dependent on the ongoing stability in the region.

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