Yemen: New Attacks by Houthi Include Likely War Crimes
Human Rights Watch has identified at least three Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as potential war crimes. The incidents, involving Saudi, Tanzanian, and Dominica-flagged ships, occurred after the Houthis imposed a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia. The organizati…
On 20 July 2026 the Houthi movement in Yemen announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia, citing a perceived Saudi sea and air blockade. In the weeks that followed, the group launched a series of attacks on commercial vessels navigating the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has now declared that at least three of these incidents likely amount to war crimes, citing the deliberate targeting of civilian crews and the absence of any military objectives on the ships.
Background: The Houthi‑Saudi Maritime Conflict
The Houthis control the northwestern part of Yemen and have been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Saudi‑led coalition since 2015. The 2026 embargo was a retaliatory move against what the Houthis described as a Saudi blockade that restricted Yemen’s maritime traffic. The embargo effectively declared that any vessel sailing in the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden would be considered a legitimate target, a stance that has led to a surge in maritime attacks.
Key Incidents and Evidence
HRW’s investigation, which relied on data from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, vessel‑tracking sites, and publicly available footage, identified four confirmed attacks: the Saudi‑flagged oil tankers Encelia and Amzan, the Tanzanian‑flagged cargo ship Tihamah, and the Dominica‑flagged tanker Daisy. The Houthis claimed a military target only on the Tihamah, alleging it carried Saudi military equipment. However, Yemeni transport officials and independent tracking data indicate that the vessel was a civilian cargo ship carrying food supplies, with no evidence of military cargo.
On 23 July, the Houthis reported striking the Encelia with ballistic missiles and drones. Saudi authorities confirmed the vessel caught fire but that all crew members were safe. On 5 August, the Daisy suffered an explosion that caused minor damage; the crew remained unharmed. The most severe incident occurred on 11 August when the Tihamah was hit by three consecutive ballistic missiles in the Bab el‑Mandab Strait, killing four crew members and injuring at least ten others. Video footage released by HRW shows smoke billowing from the ship and confirms the attack’s intensity.
Legal Context: What Constitutes a War Crime?
International humanitarian law protects civilians and civilian objects from attack. A war crime arises when a party deliberately or recklessly targets such objects without a legitimate military objective. HRW notes that even if a civilian vessel carries military equipment, the attack must still meet strict proportionality standards. The repeated nature of the Houthi attacks, coupled with the lack of verifiable military targets, raises serious concerns about compliance with these laws.
Current Status and Calls for Action
HRW has reached out to the Houthis, the ship operators, and relevant authorities, requesting evidence of military targets aboard the attacked vessels. No responses have been received. The organization urges the Houthis to cease all unlawful attacks on commercial shipping and to allow independent investigations into the incidents. It also calls for accountability for individuals who facilitate or carry out such attacks.
As the conflict continues, the safety of seafarers remains at high risk. The international community watches closely as the Houthis’ maritime strategy evolves and as the legal ramifications of these attacks unfold.
Why It Matters
These attacks threaten global shipping routes, jeopardize maritime security, and potentially violate international law. The safety of civilian crews and the integrity of commercial navigation are at stake.
Key Takeaways
- HRW identifies at least three Houthi attacks on commercial vessels as likely war crimes.
- Incidents involve Saudi, Tanzanian, and Dominica-flagged ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
- Houthis claim military targets on the Tihamah, but evidence points to a civilian cargo ship.
- International law requires verification of military objectives and proportionality before striking civilian vessels.
- HRW has not received any response from the Houthis regarding evidence of military targets.
- Continued attacks endanger seafarers and threaten global maritime commerce.
FAQ
- What is the Houthi maritime embargo? The Houthis declared a ban on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, treating them as legitimate targets.
- Have any crew members been injured? Yes, the Tihamah attack killed four crew members and injured at least ten others.
- What does international law say about attacking civilian ships? Civilian ships are protected unless they are proven to be military targets and the attack is proportionate.
- What is HRW doing? HRW is investigating the incidents, seeking evidence from the Houthis, and calling for an end to unlawful attacks.
Why it matters
The attacks endanger civilian mariners, threaten international shipping lanes, and potentially violate the laws of war, raising urgent questions about accountability and maritime security.
Key points
- HRW cites at least three Houthi attacks as likely war crimes
- Incidents target Saudi, Tanzanian, and Dominica-flagged vessels
- Houthis claim military targets but evidence suggests civilian cargo
- International law demands verification of military objectives and proportionality
- HRW has not received responses from the Houthis
- Continued attacks jeopardize seafarer safety and global trade
Frequently asked questions
What is the Houthi maritime embargo?
The Houthis declared a ban on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, treating them as legitimate targets.
Have any crew members been injured?
Yes, the Tihamah attack killed four crew members and injured at least ten others.
What does international law say about attacking civilian ships?
Civilian ships are protected unless proven to be military targets and the attack is proportionate.
What is HRW doing?
HRW is investigating the incidents, seeking evidence from the Houthis, and calling for an end to unlawful attacks.
