Yemen's Houthis ban maritime traffic to Saudi Arabian waters

ADEN, Yemen — Yemen's Houthi group announced on Friday a ban on maritime traffic to Saudi Arabian waters, saying the decision took immediate effect. The group described the move as a response to what it called a blockade of Yemen. In a statement, the Houthi-affiliated Yemeni Armed Forces said the step was taken in response to the continuation of what it described as an "unjust blockade and aggression" and the targeting of Sanaa International Airport. The statement said the closure of ports and airports had pushed civilian suffering to a level that "cannot be met with silence." The group said the decision followed large tribal demonstrations held in several Yemeni cities under the name "Friday of Warning and Mobilization." It added that current measures would remain in place until the blockade is lifted and its rights are restored.