Houthi Rebels Plan to Levy Fees on Red Sea Shipping Through Bab al-Mandab Strait

The Houthi rebel group in Yemen is considering imposing transit fees on commercial vessels passing through the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. This move comes a week after the Houthis announced a naval blockade aimed at pressuring Saudi Arabia. According to regional sources cited by Reuters, the plan is being developed with Iranian advisors and includes establishing a regulatory authority to oversee fee collection. Notably, Chinese ships are expected to receive exemptions from these fees following direct negotiations between Beijing and the Houthis to ensure safe passage for Chinese tankers in the area.

The initiative aims to normalize toll collection on international waterways and increase pressure on the United States and its allies. The Houthis’ maritime activities have intensified since November 2023, initially framed as solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict, and have only temporarily paused with the recent ceasefire. The Bab al-Mandab Strait is vital for Saudi Arabia as an alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz, and its closure or disruption poses a significant threat to global energy supplies.

Western diplomats warn that the fee imposition would face strong opposition from Gulf and European countries, though international naval forces have struggled to provide adequate protection for maritime trade in the region. A 2024 UN expert report indicated that the Houthis have previously collected around $180 million monthly from shipping agencies for safe passage guarantees, though these figures remain unverified independently. Currently, shipping through Bab al-Mandab to Asia takes about 16 days, compared to 50 days if rerouted around northern Red Sea and southern Africa routes.

Efra Al-Zuba, the foreign minister-designate of Yemen’s internationally recognized government, stated that the Houthis are attempting to control the Red Sea and impose fees on ships if possible. The Houthis’ return from Tehran included Iranian advisors who will assist in setting up the new regulatory authority to manage the fee system.