Roughly 200 seafarers aboard over 15 ships stranded near Yemen’s Ras Isa port for weeks are preparing to unload cargo and depart, following a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and the Houthi militia.
The deal, announced after the Houthis agreed to stop targeting U.S. ships, marks a potential easing of tensions that had disrupted shipping in the Red Sea. However, maritime officials warn that overall risks remain high, particularly since the Houthis have stated that Israeli-linked vessels are still considered legitimate targets.
Despite the U.S. halting its two-month bombing campaign, the Houthis’ ongoing hostility toward Israel means the ceasefire doesn’t ensure broad maritime safety. Shipping companies remain wary, especially as previous attacks have targeted non-Israeli vessels as well.
Some ships have already started to move into Ras Isa to discharge fuel cargoes, but uncertainty persists.
