Yemen’s Houthi movement said it has sunk two vessels that attempted to call at Israeli ports and warned global shipping lines that any further traffic bound for Israel through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden or Arabian Sea will be targeted. Movement leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi told supporters that last week’s operations employed 45 missiles and drones and form part of what he called an open-ended blockade aimed at pressuring Israel to halt its war in Gaza. Political council member Mohammed al-Bukhaiti said the attacks are meant to demonstrate the Houthis’ seriousness in enforcing the embargo, pledging to match any escalation by Israel with “escalation of our own.” Military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree added that the group is expanding its strike capabilities and will continue to develop missile and drone forces in support of Palestinians. The Houthis first imposed the maritime ban in December 2024; the latest statements underscore their intent to intensify actions despite international efforts to keep shipping routes open.