News - Yemen: A recent report by the Belgian organization Crisis Group highlighted that Yemen’s military operations against Israeli-affiliated shipping in the Red Sea have had broad international repercussions, extending beyond Yemen’s borders to impact maritime security and global trade. The organization emphasized that the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza offers an opportunity for regional de-escalation, provided it is accompanied by comprehensive diplomacy addressing Yemen and wider regional issues.

According to the report, Israel’s continuous aggression against Gaza since 7 October 2023 prompted Sana’a to launch naval operations using missiles and drones against vessels connected to the Israeli regime. These operations aimed to pressure an end to the Gaza blockade and ensure humanitarian aid reached the besieged population.

The report also highlighted the involvement of international actors, particularly the United States, which launched a military offensive against Yemen in April and May 2024 before reaching a ceasefire agreement. Following this, Yemen expanded its military operations from maritime targets to direct strikes on occupied territories, including a July 2024 drone strike on central Jaffa, which resulted in the first Israeli enemy fatality from these operations, drawing significant international attention to Yemen’s military actions.

Crisis Group warned that ignoring developments in the Red Sea could exacerbate regional instability. It stressed that lasting security requires addressing Yemen’s challenges in all regional dimensions, a point acknowledged by the European Union in its May 2025 Council conclusions.

The report also noted that the pre-existing Saudi-Yemeni roadmap, formulated before Israel’s Gaza offensive, could serve as a practical basis for resuming political processes. This roadmap includes a comprehensive cessation of Saudi aggression, payment of public sector salaries, and resumption of oil exports.

Yemen’s naval and missile capabilities have gained global attention following the escalation of military operations in the Red Sea. By targeting Israeli-linked vessels and demonstrating the ability to project power beyond its borders, Yemen has introduced a new strategic variable in regional maritime security.

Observers note that such actions underscore the interconnection between the Gaza conflict, regional power dynamics, and global trade routes, while emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement to prevent further instability.