The Houthi militants who control northern Yemen said they would limit their attacks on commercial ships following the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, taking a potential step towards ending the disruption that has affected world maritime trade for more than a year.
The Islamist group told shipowners, insurers and authorities that it was lifting its sanctions on ships, except those registered in Israel or wholly owned by Israeli individuals and entities, according to an email seen by the Financial Times.
In a show of support for Palestinians during Israel’s war against Hamas, the Houthis previously threatened any ship heading to Israeli ports, as well as those managed or only partially owned by Israelis. They also targeted ships owned by UK and US entities when the two countries launched strikes against the group in response to the attacks on sea trade.