Aden – The British Royal Navy has issued a strongly worded maritime security advisory warning commercial vessels of elevated threats when approaching ports in the southern Red Sea, citing a surge in attacks linked to Houthi-aligned forces operating from Yemen.

The advisory, released through the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), urges shipowners and operators to exercise “extreme caution” when transiting near Yemeni waters, particularly around Al Hudaydah and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The warning follows a series of recent incidents involving rocket-propelled grenade attacks, suspicious approaches by armed small craft, and the sinking of at least two merchant vessels in July.

“Vessels are advised to avoid anchoring near high-risk ports unless absolutely necessary and to maintain heightened vigilance throughout their transit,” the UKMTO stated, adding that armed security teams and real-time reporting are strongly recommended.

The Royal Navy’s alert comes amid growing concerns over the safety of global shipping lanes in the Red Sea, a vital corridor for oil, gas, and container traffic between Europe and Asia. Analysts warn that continued instability could further disrupt trade and drive up insurance and freight costs.

The warning also coincides with renewed international efforts to curb Houthi maritime operations, including recent U.S. sanctions targeting vessels allegedly involved in illicit oil transfers to the group.

With tensions escalating and maritime incidents on the rise, the Royal Navy emphasized the importance of coordinated naval presence and real-time intelligence sharing to safeguard commercial traffic in the region.