The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC), a multinational maritime surveillance organization led by the US Central Command, stated on the 21st (local time) that Houthi rebels have completed preparations for ship attacks near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, citing sources close to the Houthis. JMIC reported that the Houthis have deployed missiles and drones in the area. The Houthi-controlled northern Yemeni coast borders the Bab el-Mandeb strait, the southern gateway to the Red Sea, positioning the group to execute attacks on vessels transiting this critical maritime chokepoint.
Commercial Shipping Continues Uninterrupted Despite Houthi Preparations
JMIC assessed that despite the Houthi attack preparations, commercial vessel operations through the southern Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb strait have remained stable. The organization stated that "no attacks targeting commercial vessels were confirmed during the past 48 hours." JMIC further noted that "there were no changes in the operational routes or transit patterns of commercial vessels, and ships continued to use their existing routes without disruption."
Iran Instructs Houthis to Prepare Red Sea Oil Route Blockade
According to regional reports cited by JMIC, Iran has instructed the Houthis to prepare to block Red Sea oil transportation routes if the United States attacks Iranian power infrastructure. JMIC explained that "according to regional reports, Iran directed the Houthi side to prepare to block the Red Sea oil transportation route in case the US attacks Iran's power infrastructure."
JMIC Maintains Threat Assessments for Bab el-Mandeb and Hormuz Straits
JMIC assessed the threat level for the Bab el-Mandeb strait as "moderate." For the Strait of Hormuz, JMIC maintained the threat level at "severe." The organization stated that "in the current situation, the likelihood of intentional hostile acts occurring is assessed as very high." JMIC advised that "vessels transiting with Automatic Identification System (AIS) turned on may receive directive radio calls to divert to the northern Iranian-controlled route." The organization warned that navigation disruptions continue and reports regarding mine risks remain valid, recommending that "vessels must maintain vigilance in all approach segments and significantly enhance situational awareness."
FAQ
What did JMIC report about Houthi preparations on the 21st?
JMIC stated on the 21st (local time) that Houthi rebels have completed preparations for ship attacks near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, deploying missiles and drones in the area, citing sources close to the Houthis.
What threat levels did JMIC assign to the Bab el-Mandeb and Hormuz straits?
JMIC assessed the threat level for the Bab el-Mandeb strait as "moderate" while maintaining the Strait of Hormuz threat level at "severe," with the organization stating that the likelihood of intentional hostile acts is assessed as very high in the current situation.
