Advisory - Al-Hudaydah Port, Yemen

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Incident Details

Incident Date & Time:

16 September 2025: 12:13 UTC

Location:

Al-Hudaydah Port, Yemen

Latitude/Longitude: 

14° 47' 52.44" N, 42° 57' 3.24" E 

Vessel Type, Flag and Status:

N/A

Incident Type:

Advisory

Crew status

No injuries reported

Incident Details

Description

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued an evacuation order for Al-Hudaydah Port and surrounding areas in Yemen on September 16, 2025. The IDF has previously alleged that Al-Houthi forces utilize the port facilities to launch missiles towards Israeli territory. This evacuation order is likely a precursor to imminent Israeli airstrikes on the port facilities. Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security measures in the vicinity of the affected port and surrounding areas in response to the IDF evacuation order. Even after an all-clear is given, residual maritime disruptions are anticipated as operations resume and work through backlogs.

Response Actions

- Military Incident
- Other Authorities

Stolen items

- None

Key findings

This incident represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Houthi forces in Yemen. The issuance of an evacuation order for a major Yemeni port by a foreign military power is highly unusual and indicates a potential expansion of the conflict's geographical scope. The IDF's willingness to potentially strike targets in Yemen suggests a shift in their strategic approach to countering perceived threats from Houthi forces. The targeting of Al-Hudaydah Port, if airstrikes do occur, could have severe implications for maritime traffic in the Red Sea and humanitarian aid delivery to Yemen. This port is crucial for the import of essential goods and aid into the country. The threat of military action against port facilities may lead to increased insurance premiums for vessels operating in the region and could deter commercial shipping, potentially exacerbating Yemen's humanitarian crisis.

Recommendations

- Vessels should avoid Al-Hudaydah Port and surrounding waters until further notice

- Shipping companies should reassess risk management strategies for Red Sea operations

 -  Monitor official channels for updates on port status and potential military activities

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