< Airstrikes target Yemen's rebels in the port of Hodeida >

Numerous media groups and local sources have reported that a coalition airstrike had hit and damaged the port of Hodeida in Yemen. The strike especially targeted the naval base, and a number of warships in the port. The strikes were aimed at the naval base and damaged 2 warships, and it is unclear how badly the commercial port area has been affected. The strikes were reportedly supported by up to 5 coalition warships shelling port installations. The port is partly operational, but its capacity is severely restricted due to the deteriorating security situation.

As the port is under Houthi control, access is limited by the coalition's naval blockade. It is understood that some vessels will be allowed into the country if they are conducting essential trade, but these vessels will require the permission of both the Yemeni Government and Saudi-led coalition. They will also face an inspection before they are allowed into port.

Therefore, a number of commercial shipping vessels have been blocked from entering Yemeni ports, so vessel operators intending to trade in the region should make regular assessments of the situation. Some flag states, including Singapore, have issued warnings that their vessels should avoid calling to ports in Yemen due to the deteriorating security situation.

Article Published on 28 May, 2015

Source: Yemen Times