Aden— The Middle East Forum has revealed the existence of a covert maritime network connecting Sudan’s coastline to Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, used to smuggle oil and weapons in violation of international law and UN Security Council resolutions.

According to the report, the network operates through unregulated ports along the Red Sea, exploiting Sudan’s security vacuum to facilitate shipments destined for Houthi factions or affiliated intermediaries in Yemen.

The Forum notes that the smuggling routes are supported by regional actors aligned with the Houthis and serve as a financial lifeline for their military operations, including attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The report warns that the continuation of this network poses a direct threat to maritime security and undermines peace efforts in Yemen and the broader region. It calls for enhanced naval monitoring and the enforcement of international sanctions against those involved.