Ankara: Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi has ordered the closure of any port or border crossing operating outside government law in a bid to combat smuggling and disrupt arms and financing networks supporting the Houthis. The directive was announced during a meeting of the Supreme Committee for Combating Smuggling, chaired by Prime Minister Shaia al-Zindani in the Saudi capital.
According to Anadolu Agency, Al-Alimi emphasized the end of leniency towards smuggling activities, pledging to safeguard legitimate trade and the private sector while taking decisive actions against networks that deplete state resources or threaten national security. These measures are part of a broader strategy to secure sovereign ports, undermine the 'war economy,' and cut off funding and weapons sources for the Houthis.
Al-Alimi stated that Yemen, engaged in a crucial battle to restore its national institutions, could no longer allow smuggling networks to operate through its territory or sovereign ports. He stressed that the decisions of the Presidential Leadership Council should be implemented indiscriminately, mandating the closure of any unauthorized port or crossing.
Additionally, Al-Alimi ordered a comprehensive review of all ports and crossings with recorded irregularities, including management and security operations. He called for personnel changes and the replacement of officials failing in their duties. Al-Alimi assured that there would be no immunity for those involved in smuggling or obstructing government decisions.
On July 14, government-aligned Giants Brigades forces intercepted a boat in the Bab al-Mandab Strait carrying materials for weapon manufacturing, destined for Hodeidah province under Houthi control. The Yemeni government has been tightening controls over entry points amid reports of intercepted weapons shipments, with a UN panel documenting seizures intended for the Houthis.
Since 2022, Yemen has seen relative calm after years of conflict between government forces and the Houthis, who seized significant parts of the country in 2014. However, fighting resumed last month in several regions, including Marib, Al-Jawf, Al-Dhale, and Taiz.
The Saudi-led coalition supports Yemen's government, while Iran is accused of backing the Houthis, who recently announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia. The Houthis have increased their involvement in regional hostilities, conducting attacks on Israel and related shipping in the Red Sea, amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.